Glowstone

Glowstone (Formerly known as Lightstone, Brittle Gold, Brightstone, Australium or Brimstone) is a golden block that glows indefinitely. This block can be found in The Nether. It grows on the undersides of blocks, commonly near lava, and forms unusual coral-like stalactites. Glowstone has a luminance of 15, which is the same as sunlight and one more than torches.



Breaking this block drops Glowstone Dust. Glowstone has no crafting use; however, it does have a practical use. Unlike torches, it isn't destroyed by water and continues to emit light even when submerged. In this respect, it's a functional and easily applied underwater light. Additionally, the block is a natural source of heat and will melt nearby snow and ice.

Glowstone does not require a tool to be harvested, and makes the same sound as glass makes when shattered. Swords can be used to break Glowstone at a faster pace with the cost of two uses.

Glowstone is a potential item requirement to craft a lantern, as it provides an infinite source of light. This would also make lanterns relatively inaccessible and a risky item to get, as has been hinted at by Notch.

Glowstone Dust


Glowstone Dust can be found by destroying Glowstone found in The Nether. It takes nine Glowstone Dust in the crafting bench to return it to its original block form, but only drops one Glowstone Dust if destroyed. Glowstone dust currently has no other uses. However, it will most likely be used in the creation of lanterns once Notch gives torches the ability to burn out.

Trivia

 * Based on the shape of its formation, properties, and location, glowstone could be a hint at the mineral sulphur.
 * When glowstone is destroyed, it will only give 1 piece of Glowstone Dust. As it takes 9 pieces of Glowstone Dust to craft a Glowstone Block, players should place it wisely.

Lightstone