# Fluorescent Minerals Catalog: 50+ Minerals under 254nm & 365nm UV

> Author: Black Light Encyclopedia Research Group
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> Machine Endpoints: /data/minerals.json, /data/minerals.csv

## Mineral Fluorescence Photophysics
Mineral fluorescence requires trace activator ions (Mn2+, Eu2+, UO2^2+, Cr3+, S2-) within the crystal lattice. Iron (Fe) acts as a quencher, suppressing fluorescence.
- Shortwave (254 nm): Activates ~90% of fluorescent minerals (Willemite, Calcite, Scheelite, Esperite).
- Longwave (365 nm): Activates specialized minerals (Sodalite/Yooperlites, Fluorite, Wernerite, Ruby).

## Prominent Mineral Highlights
1. Calcite (CaCO3): Mn2+ activated. Shortwave: Brilliant red. Longwave: Weak pink/inert. Franklin NJ.
2. Willemite (Zn2SiO4): Mn2+ activated. Shortwave: Blinding neon green with long-lasting green phosphorescence.
3. Sodalite / Yooperlite (Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2): Disulfide (S2-) center. Longwave 365nm: Molten fire-orange glow. Keweenaw Peninsula, MI.
4. Fluorite (CaF2): Eu2+ activated. Longwave 365nm: Electric royal blue.
5. Autunite (Ca(UO2)2(PO4)2·10-12H2O): Uranyl ion activated. Shortwave & Longwave: Brilliant yellow-green. Naturally radioactive.
6. Scheelite (CaWO4): Intrinsic tungstate group. Shortwave 254nm: Ice-blue. Longwave: Inert.
7. Corundum / Ruby (Al2O3:Cr): Cr3+ activated. Longwave 365nm: Laser red (694.3 nm R-lines).