FUNKITE

Funkite is a unique, man-made lapidary material consisting of solidified layers of colourful, UV-reactive industrial paint. Much like "Fordite" (automotive paint slag), Funkite originated from the overspray of fluorescent paint plants in the 1960s and 1970s—including paints used for the Grateful Dead. Lapidary artists cut, shape, and polish these cured paint layers into colourful cabochons and pendants.
A key characteristic of Funkite is that it glows and fluoresces intensely under blacklight (ultraviolet light). Because it is essentially hardened paint, it is extremely lightweight, though it requires specialized cutting speeds to prevent undercutting.