Vermiculite is a naturally-occurring material, often brownish gold at first glance, which may be optimal when included in potting soil, and under certain conditions is occasionally commingled with asbestos. Asbestos is a widespread product interesting in its capacity to tolerate flames without burning, so it's useful in fabrication and manufacturing environments.

Geologists comprehend that asbestos is legitimately the name given to unaltered minerals that divide into hair like strips that are resistant to burning, chemicals, high temperatures, flames; further, they do not conduct electricity. Asbestos fibers, despite being a threat to the health of those who come in contact with them, have been used in the past to make things including, for example, napkins and lamp wicks.

The fascinating saga of asbestos verifies that the ancient Egyptians knew of its fire-retardant nature and used it in order to create towels as well as other items. Even though it has seen a good deal of negative press in the last four decades as more was discovered of its dangerous aspects, asbestos is simply a fibrous substance that has been used for many generations as the basis for a myriad of materials, for example lamp wicks that required the ability to be protected from the chance of combustion.