Germanium is a glassy element and as such it can be turned into lenses. But you know what the problem with a germanium lens is? You can’t see through it! It’s as opaque as a cement wall. Although it stops light waves from getting through it does, however, let through thermal radiation and this makes it ideal for use in night vision devices. If you’ve ever seen clips of someone’s hand as a bright splotch against a dark green background you’re looking at an image made possible by a germanium lens.

Holistic medicine practitioners have, sadly, homed in on germanium too as something to push on the unsuspecting. Touted as a cure for [fill in the blank] these “dietary supplements” are linked to a number of diseases of the kidneys and liver. Germanium as a free element is harmless due to being inert at room temperature but the compounds it creates are often toxic. So, kids, no shopping for elements at your local GNC!