Ulexite "Television Stone"
Ulexite "Television Stone"
Gigantic crystal formations of Ulexite occur in the form of fibrous, compact veins. When polished, these specimens become the well-known "Television Stone" or "TV Stone" sold to amateur collectors. The optical effect exhibited by Television Stone is caused by each of its individual crystal fibers acting as fiber-optic cables, transmitting light from one surface to the other. Since all the fibers are parallel and compacted together, any image at below is transmitted through each crystal fiber to the top surface. For this effect to be seen, specimens are polished with smooth surfaces. Fibrous Ulexite bundles can also be carved into cabochons that display strong chatoyancy. However, due to its low hardness, it is unsuitable for gem use.