There isn't a single stone that naturally glows in the dark. However, some minerals and rocks can phosphoresce, meaning they absorb light energy and then release it slowly, creating a glowing effect.
Phosphorescent Minerals:
- Fluorite: This mineral comes in various colors and can exhibit a vibrant glow after being exposed to UV light.
- Calcite: Some calcite varieties, especially those with manganese impurities, can phosphoresce with a pale blue or green color.
- Sodalite: This blue mineral can emit a faint orange glow after being exposed to UV light.
Other Glowing Rocks:
- Glow-in-the-dark rocks: These are actually artificial materials. They contain phosphorescent pigments that are mixed into resin or plastic to create decorative rocks.
- Radioactive rocks: Some rocks contain naturally occurring radioactive elements, which can cause them to emit a faint glow. However, handling radioactive rocks is dangerous and should be avoided.
Remember, most "glow-in-the-dark" rocks are actually synthetic materials. True phosphorescent minerals are rare and require exposure to light to activate their glow.