The beauty of fluorescent minerals always comes as a surprise to those new at this field.   Only certain minerals will exhibit this effect, and then just when illuminated by a source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.  

While ultraviolet lights and mineral specimens are typically available from local suppliers, the variety is often quite limited.   Serious collectors may wish to check a worldwide listing of ultraviolet light suppliers and fluorescent mineral specimen dealers compiled by the FMS.

Displaying fluorescent specimens requires not only the UV lights for illumination but also a dark environment to shield the specimens from ambient light that can easily swamp out the delicate fluorescence.   Lighting problems are magnified even more when photographing fluorescent specimens.

We are currently showcasing images from the collections shown below and would welcome the addition of others to expand the list.

• Images from the Gérard Barmarin Collection
• Photos from Corby Waste - more at Corby's site

For many more images of fluorescent minerals, follow our web links.