Fires stones, or Yooperlites, are curiously peculiar stones found on the shores of Lake Huron. Believed to be the result of thousands of years of sedimentary accumulation around iron-rich meteorites, Yooperlite has gained popularity for its fluorescence properties which glow brightly under UV light. This particular type of Yooperlite — found solely in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan — is a precious optical phenomenon worth noting and exploring. What is it? How did it come to be? Is it really only found in Lake Huron? Here we’ll find out.
Discovered in 2017 by self-proclaimed Yooperlite hunter Erik Rintamaki, this peculiar type of glowing rock can range in colors from soft oranges and yellows to greens and purples. When exposed to UV light (commonly used for blacklight photography), the gemstones glow fluorescently. Electron Microprobe and scanning electron microscope analyses of these stones have revealed that they are composed mostly of syenite and anorthosite. It is believed that the small pockets of iron oxide on the surface of these rocks is what causes the Yooperlite to glow when exposed to UV radiation.
For a few months each summer, treasure seekers travel to the beaches of Lake Huron in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, in search of these elusive Yooperlites. It is generally easier to find Yooperlites closer to the water’s edge, typically under two to three inches of sand, rather than in the exposed sand of the beach. Some people claim that the Yooperlite gems will even sparkle in the sunlight due to the tiny quartz grains scattered within them.
Since its discovery, Yooperlite has been a source of fascination for gemstone hunters and collectors. Its popularity, spurred by the use of social media and local news coverage, has caused a surge in people seeking out the stones. The Internet has made it easier still, with online groups dedicated to helping each other find Yooperlite.
Yooperlite is considered to be a rare type of non-precious gemstone known as a macrocrystalline fluorite, but it is still quite common at the shores of Lake Huron. This can be attributed to the fact that the area where it is found is rich in mineralization, largely due to scattered bits of meteorites that have hit the earth in the Upper Peninsula over time. Variations in this mineralization are what make it possible for individual pieces of Yooperlite to have their own unique characteristics, and is why it is so highly sought after.
Yooperlites found in Lake Huron are relatively small and generally less that 1 cm. in size, making them difficult to find. Since the stones are not valuable financially, it is mostly the thrill of the hunt and the joy of finding these peculiar pieces that attract people. It is an underground hobby in the same vein as geocaching or metal detecting, with that added element of mysterious glowing gemstones.
Why People Love Yooperlites
The popularity of Yooperlites has been growing rapidly, as hunters of all ages seek out these sparkly gems. Many find collecting Yooperlites to be an exciting and rewarding pastime on their own and with friends and family. Not only is the prospect of potentially finding these stones some thrill for adventurers, but the stones also possess a certain aesthetic beauty that is captivating to the casual observer and collector. The combination of these elements makes Yooperlites alluring for many.
In all, Yooperlites make for a worthwhile experience, as the hunt for these stones is rarely serene. Special care should be taken when looking, as the stones are not only small but incredibly fragile. Wandering collectors will want to be aware of their footing so as to not damage the stones with their shoes.
Are Yooperlites Only in Lake Huron?
The answer is yes and no. While Lake Huron is the only place known to have Yooperlites, they can also be found in other bodies of water nearby. Yooperlites have been spotted along the Great Lakes of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as on the islands off the coasts of Michigan and Ontario. This means that collectors have the potential of finding Yooperlite stones wherever they may be.
Credit for the find of Yooperlites undeniably belongs to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Some believe its popularity can be best attributed to the area’s stunning beauty, coupled with the genuine thrill of the hunt.
It’s best to plan ahead when seeking out Yooperlites from Lake Huron and other areas. Since the fluorescence of each stone is dependent on the amount of iron oxide present, it is beneficial to acquire a UV light source. A blacklight flashlight or headlamp is sharp tools for detecting these stones without disturbing any of the surrounding rocks.
Geology of Yooperlites
The interior of Yooperlites is composed primarily of syenite and these stones are known as igneous rocks. While the exact origin of Yooperlites is still unknown, many speculate that they have been formed over hundreds of thousands of years as a result of the sedimentary deposits of iron rich meteorites. In fact, some scientists have suggested that the Yooperlite stones may have originated over 3 billion years ago when large meteorites impacted the earth, creating hotspots of mineralization across the surface.
This would further explain why Yooperlites are found exclusively in an area near the Great Lakes. In addition, Yooperlites may even have been created during the Pleistocene retreat when much of the Lake Huron area was covered by glaciers. Examining Yooperlites under a microscope will reveal that the stones are made up of various minerals, including quartz, calcium carbonate, feldspar, and iron oxide.
These mineralized rocks are incredibly delicate and should be handled with care. Chipping the material can expose the delicate internal layers, causing the Yooperlite to lose its fluorescence or even break apart. Those who are fortunate enough to find Yooperlites should take the time to admire their finds before attempting to collect them.
Cleavage and Fractures of Yooperlites
The unique optical properties of Yooperlites lay in their mineral content. In addition to iron oxide, which causes the rocks to fluoresce when put under UV light, these stones have cleavage and fractures. While some of these fractures are shiny and glassy, others have narrow gap-filling veins of quartz and feldspar, exhibiting their own subtle glow in low-light conditions.
Cleavage and fractures are usually the result of stress from mining or pressure from encasement. In Yooperlite’s case, these structures come from the natural weathering process which exposed its delicate interior. They are also the source of Yooperlite’s unique optical properties, with some even being partially transparent when held up to a light source.
Over thousands of years, the elements of nature have worked together to create these captivating stones, and it is well worth seeking them out if you have the chance. They may be mighty small but these Yooperlites can leave a lasting impression on the observer.
How to Dis closer Yooperlite Stones
Yooperlites usually settle between two to three inches in the sand dunes close to the lake, so be mindful when walking the beaches. To spot them, you can crouch down and look closely, with the help of a blacklight flashlight. Yooperlites may appear dull and are likely indistinguishable from other stones without the aid of a UV light source. If successful, you’ll know straight away – these stones will glow brightly when put under UV lights.
It is recommended that you bring along a few items when out exploring. A shovel may be of assistance in sifting through the sand, while a pair of tweezers or pointed object will help you in picking out your finds. UV lights and waterproof buckets are helpful too, as they keep your finds dry when the waves come in.
Yooperlite stones may be hard to come by, so fully appreciate your time spent collecting them. If you plan on storing the Yooperlites for any length of time, then it is important to make sure the stones are kept in dry, airtight containers. This will help to keep the stones in good condition for as long as possible.
Ethical Considerations When Collecting Yooperlites
Yooperlites are a popular find for beach-goers – for some, the challenge of finding these stones is what keeps bringing people back. Despite the popularity, some ethical considerations should be kept in mind when out on the hunt. Due to the unique and delicate nature of Yooperlites, special attention should be taken not to dig up the beaches or disturb other rocks in the area.
The State of Michigan demands that only non-motorized shovels or tines be used to collect Yooperlites, as this helps to prevent the irreversible damage to the rocks and their environment. Additionally, any Yooperlites found should be left to enjoy by others. Only take a few at a time, or what you truly need – let’s help keep Lake Huron majestic and its gemstones untainted by human hands.
Preserving Yooperlites from Lake Huron
Those who seek to preserve the natural beauty of these stones may consider donating Yooperlites to the Lake Huron Museum, which houses them for other visitors to admire. Yooperlites can also be sold to gem dealers, who will buy them for the purpose of creating jewelry, toys, or souvenirs.
Whatever route you take with preserving your finds, it is best to exercise caution to prevent Yooperlites from being damaged in the process. The stones should be properly packaged and sealed in airtight containers to protect them from the elements. The most important thing to remember when collecting Yooperlites is to have fun and remain respectful of the environment around you.
Conclusion: Yooperlites In Lake Huron
Yooperlites are a fascinating natural phenomenon found exclusively in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. These precious treasures have caught the eye of many, and the thrill of the hunt is what keeps bringing people back. While the stones are not valuable financially, they are worth a significant amount of pleasure. Whether you’re looking for a rare gemstone or a good time on a beach day, Yooperlites in Lake Huron won’t disappoint.
