[Rockhounds] UV Light recommendations wanted

[Axel Emmermann]

Hi Kreigh,

Aragonite doesn't absorb uranyl very well (it practically doesn't).
Neither does calcite.
If you see green uranyl fluorescence in either of those that means that, during growth, some thin hyalite layers have formed on the growing crystal faces. That hyalite opal absorbs the uranyl.
So the fluorescence in not in the aragonite but in the hyalite that is IN the aragonite.
It's like thos Russian Matrushka dolls... 😉

Cheers
Axel


-----Oorspronkelijk bericht-----
Van: Rockhounds <rockhounds-bounces at rockhounds.drizzle.com> Namens Kreigh Tomaszewski
Verzonden: dinsdag 10 juli 2018 3:55
Aan: Rockhounds at drizzle.com: A mailing list for rock and gem collectors <rockhounds at rockhounds.drizzle.com>
Onderwerp: Re: [Rockhounds] UV Light recommendations wanted

Hyalite is SiO2 · nH2O and is not radioactive, but it has a tendency to incorporate Uranium (often in the form of Nováčekite), which causes it go fluoresce bright green (Aragonite does this too). If it glows green it is probably radioactive.
Put your radioactives behind glass or plastic to block the alpha and beta radiation. Be reasonably well ventilated to avoid buildup of radon. Wash you hands immediately after handling, as your biggest risk is accidental ingestion (or contact with mucus tissue). Most radioactives are not a problem is you take simple precautions.
But for bulk radioactives I would consider the garage for storage, or do a radon test a week after storing them in the basement.

Kreigh


On Mon, Jul 9, 2018 at 6:18 PM, John Scully <jscully216 at gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi, All
>
> I just purchased about 100 pounds of hyalite opal on chalcedony from 
> Mexico.  Now I want to put it under a UV light.  So, I am asking for 
> recommendations on what to purchase.  Questions such as:
>
> 1.  SW vs. LW?
> 2.  Flashlight size units?
> 3.  Larger units?
> 4.  Battery operated?
> 5.  Price range -- this is important to me.  anything useful at around 
> $200?
>
> Also, does hyalite have any radioactivity?
>
> Thanks
>
> John Scully
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