Weight: 944g
Height: 216mm
Yooperlite
Yooperlite is a fascinating type of rock that gained popularity for its ability to glow under ultraviolet (UV) light due to the presence of fluorescent sodalite within its composition. Discovered on the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula by Erik Rintamaki in 2017, Yooperlite rocks are technically syenite rocks rich in sodalite, but they exhibit a unique glowing orange or yellow fluorescence when exposed to UV light, making them highly prized by rock enthusiasts and collectors.
These glowing rocks were named "Yooperlite" as a nod to the residents of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, who are known as "Yoopers."
Appearance and Colors
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Color Under Normal Light: Yooperlite appears as a gray, brown, or light-colored rock with occasional speckles of darker minerals under regular lighting.
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UV Fluorescence: When exposed to ultraviolet light, it exhibits a striking orange or yellow glow, primarily from the sodalite content within the stone.
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Texture: It has a rough, somewhat grainy texture, typical of syenite, with occasional visible specks of other minerals.
Where Yooperlite is Found
Yooperlite is predominantly found along the shores of:
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Lake Superior, particularly in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, USA.
Though this specific type of glowing syenite rock is best known from Michigan, similar sodalite-rich rocks can be found in other locations, including parts of Canada and Scandinavia.
Rarity
While Yooperlite is not exceedingly rare, its unique UV-reactive properties make it highly sought after. The novelty of its glow and its recent discovery have increased its demand, especially among collectors and enthusiasts of fluorescent minerals.
Metaphysical Properties of Yooperlite
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Emotional Healing and Calm: Yooperlite is believed to bring emotional balance and reduce stress, helping to calm and soothe the mind during times of emotional turbulence.
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Self-Expression: It’s said to encourage open communication and self-expression, promoting honesty and helping individuals speak their truth.
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Clarity and Insight: This stone is thought to enhance clarity of thought and increase insight, making it a valuable tool for those seeking greater understanding of their own emotions or situations.
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Empowerment and Confidence: Yooperlite is also believed to promote self-confidence and inner strength, helping individuals overcome obstacles and embrace new challenges.
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Spiritual Awakening: Due to its UV fluorescence, many users see Yooperlite as a tool for awakening to hidden aspects of the self, especially during times of transformation and spiritual growth.
Chakra Healing
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Throat Chakra (Communication): Yooperlite is closely associated with the Throat Chakra, enhancing communication and self-expression, allowing individuals to speak their truth more freely and with confidence.
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Third Eye Chakra (Intuition): This stone also resonates with the Third Eye Chakra, aiding in spiritual insight, intuition, and inner vision, especially during meditation or reflective practices.
UV Reactivity
Yooperlite is highly UV-reactive, exhibiting a vivid orange or yellow glow when exposed to ultraviolet (black) light. The fluorescence is caused by the presence of sodalite in the rock, making it an incredibly popular stone for nighttime rock hunting or UV light exploration.