By Rodrigo M. (r.martinez@latinospost.com) | First Posted: Aug 11, 2015 05:42 PM EDT
We are surrounded by deadly animals but there are some other things in this world that can cause us a deadly end: Rocks!
Arsenopyrite
Sometimes mistaken for fool's gold, arsenopyrite is arsenic iron sulfide. Heating it releases the lethal gas, but just handling it alone can bring you into contact with the poison. Always wash your hands before you eat.
Chrysotile (Asbestos)
Asbestos destroys human lungs and causes cancer with its tiny crystals that become airborne. Among its lovely effects, those unlucky enough to breath in some of it can expect lung irritation and scarring.
Chalcanthite
Chalcanthite crystals broken down and introduced to water weakens and kills both animal and plant life by shutting down their vital functions. In this form, it was used formerly to clear ponds of plant growth.
Coloradoite
Found in magma veins, coloradoite is what happens when mercury fuses with tellurium - another toxic mineral. When heated, it releases a poisonous dust. It is also dangerous if handled poorly.
Galena
Galena forms in silver, neat-looking cubes. It is also extremely brittle and poses a high risk of lead poisoning to those exposed to it for prolonged periods through simple contact or by inhaling its deadly dust.
Hutchinsonite
Hutchinsonite is what happens when thallium, lead and arsenic raise a child together. Found all over Europe, and can cause severe sickness, death and hair loss in people it comes in contact with.
Orpiment
Found near hydrothermal vents, these rocks are made of arsenic and sulfur. Touching them is enough to release a neurotoxin, but some cultures have even used it as a weapon by rubbing arrowheads into its dust.
Stibnite
Once used as an alternative to silver for making utensils, these crystals killed many before production stopped. The antimony-laced rock can have a similar effect to arsenic poisoning in humans.
Torbernite
Found in granite and made of uranium, these green crystals have been long admired by collectors. As well as being radioactive however, the rocks release deadly radon gas when heated.
Cinnabar
Cinnabar is one of the most toxic rocks on the planet. It forms near sulfur deposits and volcanoes. When heated or disturbed, the crystals can release mercury which causes anything from severe tremors to death. Ancient medicines, however, believed that the rock had healing powers.
The Rock
2x USWA tag team champion, 2x world heavyweight champion, 8x WWE champion, 2x intercontinental champion, 5x WWE tag team champion, Royal Rumble winner, triple crown champion, 8x Slammy Award winner, 2x match of the year winner, 2x most popular wrestler of the year winner, one-time wrestler of the year, beat John Cena.