Longwave UV
Longwave UV is the most popular choice. It has a wavelength range of 315-400 nanometers on the electromagnetic spectrum and is also known as UVA. Most blacklights fall into this category but avoid these as they are often closer to 400nm and rarely, if ever, have a filter to block visible light. This is a great wavelength to choose if you’re on a budget, need something that has a longer battery-life, and just want to casually see what the fluorescent world has to offer. |
Shortwave UV
Shortwave is the second most common wavelength used in the fluorescent mineral hobby; however, it is the one preferred by serious collectors. The wavelength is about 200-280 nanometers and is the most dangerous of the three UV wavelengths discussed here, so precautions should absolutely be taken. It is also known as UVC. This is a great wavelength to choose if you want to see more minerals fluoresce, although typically the prices start higher. |