<p><strong>Use a clear liquid epoxy resin, construction adhesive, 'Gorilla Glue', or 'Iron Grip' silicone adhesive</strong>:</p>

<ul>
<li><blockquote>
  <p><strong>Liquid epoxy resins</strong> dry clear and hard, bonding stones that may not
  fit snugly together. It may make some stones look wet in the area of
  application. Since this resin is a liquid, it runs a bit after you
  apply it, so it can pool beneath the stones if you use too much. Epoxy
  resin works well on stones, both large and small.</p>
</blockquote>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/u6MfD.jpg" rel="nofollow noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/u6MfD.jpg" alt="Result of stone glued to stone using epoxy resin"></a><br>
<sup><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGyGkL7pDdw" rel="nofollow noreferrer">source</a>: smaller scale than what the OP might have in mind, but still a valid example of an end result. Be sure to work safer than the author, though.</sup></p>

<p>As per <a href="https://www.resinobsession.com/forums/topic/clear-cloudy-resin/" rel="nofollow noreferrer">this site</a>, be sure to warm up the resin before application (though not with a heat gun or similar device), as this may help prevent it from turning cloudy.
In case of outdoor use, be sure to pick an epoxy that is UV stabilized.<br>
<a href="http://forums.sailinganarchy.com/index.php?/topic/179481-cloudy-chalky-epoxy/" rel="nofollow noreferrer">Additionally</a>, make sure you apply it in a dry environment and protect it from getting wet (also while curing), and don't overmix it. <sup>*</sup>  </p>

<p><strong>Update: you won't be able to get blobs with epoxy resin, unfortunately.</strong>  </p></li>
</ul>

<p>The following glues are commonly or regularly used for glueing brick walls together, or glueing stones to a vertical surface.</p>

<ul>
<li><blockquote>
  <p><strong>Construction adhesive</strong>, offered in a caulk-style tube, creates bonds
  strong enough to hold larger stones together, such as baseball-style
  stones or river rocks around the perimeter of a homemade garden pond.  </p>
</blockquote>

<p>Make sure you're using a clear variant.  </p>

<p><sup><a href="https://www.ehow.com/how_8382380_glue-stones-together.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer">source</a></sup></p></li>
<li><p>'<strong><a href="https://www.gorillatough.com/product/clear-gorilla-glue/" rel="nofollow noreferrer">Clear Gorilla Glue</a></strong>' (no affiliation): </p>

<blockquote>
  <p>The strength and versatility you have come to expect from Gorilla Glue
  is now available in an easy to use, crystal clear, non-foaming
  formula. Clear Gorilla Glue is incredibly strong and is ideal for
  indoor and outdoor applications and bonds virtually everything.  </p>
</blockquote>

<p>See <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSNIzxkD450" rel="nofollow noreferrer">here</a> for an example of mortar replacement. Mind that the regular unclear version is used.</p></li>
<li><p>'<strong>Iron Grip Adhesive Silicone</strong>' (no affiliation): </p>

<blockquote>
  <p>Made from 100% silicone, GE Iron Grip adhesive works fast on almost
  any porous and non-porous surface, including aluminum, steel, PVC,
  glass, concrete, fiberglass, polystyrene, plywood, drywall, ceramic,
  porcelain, stone, laminate, wood and MDF – indoors and out – all
  without any extra surface prep.</p>
</blockquote>

<p>Clear curing. <a href="https://youtu.be/-PRsuAJuVqw?t=54" rel="nofollow noreferrer">Here</a>'s a commercial video, showing the glue used on concrete blocks. As always, check the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/M90058-Iron-Silicone-Adhesive-Clear/product-reviews/B0763JS2P1/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_show_all_top?ie=UTF8&amp;reviewerType=all_reviews" rel="nofollow noreferrer">reviews</a>.  </p></li>
</ul>

<p><sup>
* More useful information on the application of epoxies can be found <a href="http://www.oneoceankayaks.com/Epoxresl.htm#blush" rel="nofollow noreferrer">here</a>.
</sup></p>

CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-11T03:15:55.907Z
I’d give you the bounty but I really wanted to see photos of dry clear glue in use.
Stefan
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-11T09:48:53.043Z
@Stefan They're actually hard to find, excepting commercial videos. Especially of the clear curing ones it is hard to find proper illustrations. I've added some links, though.
Joachim
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-18T23:54:49.250Z
You're right. I decided to post my own photos, after buying some of the glue.
Stefan
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-09T10:34:22.840Z
2019-05-11T09:46:39.503Z
2019-05-11T09:46:39.503Z
Joachim
<p>Liquid Nails Clear is a Selleys product made in Australia. We use liquid nails here as an all round building and construction glue, including masonry, metal, timber. </p>

<p>Their technical support people tell me:</p>

<p>“Liquid Nails Clear dries very clear with a clear bond line so you have a mess free bond line (you shouldn't be able to see it unless you look at it with an eagle eye.)”</p>

<p>Their instructions say it resists water, and. "24-48hrs strong bond. Cures in 14 days."</p>

<p><em>UPDATE:</em></p>

<p><strong>A test using two bricks</strong></p>

<p>Given the lack of actual photos (even from Selley's) I have done my own test using two house bricks. As you can see the join uses much more glue than necessary but wanted to test and then show its transparency. I think it passed. This product gets tacky very quickly. It's a glue I would <em>always</em> wear latex or other gloves with. (I do not need more chemicals in my body.)</p>

<p>Photo 1: Two bricks glued together using Selley’s Liquid Nails Clear:</p>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/vqksw.jpg" rel="nofollow noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/vqksw.jpg" alt="Two house bricks glued together with Selley’s Liquid Nails Clear."></a></p>

<hr>

<p>Photo 2: One strong joint. "24-48hrs strong bond. Cures in 14 days." (Bricks are not resting on ground by the way).</p>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/5YVlh.jpg" rel="nofollow noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/5YVlh.jpg" alt="One strong joint!"></a></p>

CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-10T11:54:22.457Z
That is a great idea! I'll give it and other clear nail products a try. Thank you!
gretchen
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-08T05:34:51.207Z
2019-05-20T23:06:00.333Z
2019-05-20T23:06:00.333Z
Stefan
<p>I'm trying to glue something to a rock and need a glue that won't turn cloudy over time. I've spoken to several glue manufacturers to no avail. I have also tried about 6 brands so far and none remain clear even if they were clear before drying. The closest I've gotten is with Elmer's. It dried clear but within 6 months became cloudy. Any suggestions? Thanks for thinking about this. I should also mention I need the glue to stay in a "blob" in certain areas so the paint on the underlying rock surface will show through the well-defined dollop of glue. As I said, I used Elmer's which turned cloudy but it didn't run, so that was half the battle. Sorry I didn't mention this in the first version of my question. I did get some answers one being heat-activated adhesive which I have not tried as yet. I have tried Gorilla Glue (dried cloudy) and Duco Cement (was very runny).</p>

CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-06T21:57:20.367Z
Welcome! What's the thing that is being glued to the rock, and how firmly does it need to be held on? (If it will get stressed or pulled a lot, weaker transparent glues would not work, for example.) Can you [edit] to add any more information? The more details, the better answers you will get :)
Erica
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-07T21:35:09.417Z
I'm not offering this as an answer because I don't know if it stays clear over deep time but there is a special glue used in plastic model car making which stays clear even when you accidentally smear it on the car's clear windshield.  It applies and dries transparent.  The bottle I have is called "Clear Parts Cement & Window Maker" by Model Master, Inc.  I bought it at a local hobby shop a couple of years ago and it is still good (and clear)
Henry Taylor
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-10T11:56:30.123Z
Thank you Erica. I added more info which I had left out. No stress will be put on most of the glue as some areas will be "stand-alone" blobs, other areas will have rock-to-rock attachments.
gretchen
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-10T11:59:18.400Z
Hi Henry! I'll try your Clear Parts Cement suggestion if I can find the glue. I did edit my question somewhat if you want to reread it. I have tried Duco Cement but it was way too runny and wouldn't stay in a cohesive blob. It did start out clear though. Thanks for your suggestion!
gretchen
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-10T12:04:40.267Z
More of an answer for Erica-- I have tried Duco Cement and it stayed clear for at least 2 months but per my added edit info, didn't stay in a well-demarcated area. Thanks for your idea. It was a good one.
gretchen
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-10T13:32:53.347Z
Thanks, these are great details :)
Erica
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-05-17T06:02:46.877Z
You didn't mention what you are trying to bond with the glue or adhesive.
Lilibete
CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-07-29T01:39:01.983Z
It isn't clear whether the objective is to adhere something to the rock, or embed it in a clear blob of material and it is all stuck to the rock.  Any chance there is a picture of something similar you could post, or describe the objective in more detail?
fixer1234
<adhesives>
I need a glue that won't turn opaque or run
gretchen
# I need a glue that won't turn opaque or run

(Asked by: username_0 on 2019-05-06)

I'm trying to glue something to a rock and need a glue that won't turn cloudy over time. I've spoken to several glue manufacturers to no avail. I have also tried about 6 brands so far and none remain clear even if they were clear before drying. The closest I've gotten is with Elmer's. It dried clear but within 6 months became cloudy. Any suggestions? Thanks for thinking about this. I should also mention I need the glue to stay in a "blob" in certain areas so the paint on the underlying rock surface will show through the well-defined dollop of glue. As I said, I used Elmer's which turned cloudy but it didn't run, so that was half the battle. Sorry I didn't mention this in the first version of my question. I did get some answers one being heat-activated adhesive which I have not tried as yet. I have tried Gorilla Glue (dried cloudy) and Duco Cement (was very runny).

**Tags:** adhesives

> **Comments:**
> **username_1**: Welcome! What's the thing that is being glued to the rock, and how firmly does it need to be held on? (If it will get stressed or pulled a lot, weaker transparent glues would not work, for example.) Can you [edit] to add any more information? The more details, the better answers you will get :)  
> **username_2**: I'm not offering this as an answer because I don't know if it stays clear over deep time but there is a special glue used in plastic model car making which stays clear even when you accidentally smear it on the car's clear windshield.  It applies and dries transparent.  The bottle I have is called "Clear Parts Cement & Window Maker" by Model Master, Inc.  I bought it at a local hobby shop a couple of years ago and it is still good (and clear)  
> **username_0**: Thank you username_1. I added more info which I had left out. No stress will be put on most of the glue as some areas will be "stand-alone" blobs, other areas will have rock-to-rock attachments.  
> **username_0**: Hi Henry! I'll try your Clear Parts Cement suggestion if I can find the glue. I did edit my question somewhat if you want to reread it. I have tried Duco Cement but it was way too runny and wouldn't stay in a cohesive blob. It did start out clear though. Thanks for your suggestion!  
> **username_0**: More of an answer for username_1-- I have tried Duco Cement and it stayed clear for at least 2 months but per my added edit info, didn't stay in a well-demarcated area. Thanks for your idea. It was a good one.  
> **username_1**: Thanks, these are great details :)  
> **username_3**: You didn't mention what you are trying to bond with the glue or adhesive.  
> **username_4**: It isn't clear whether the objective is to adhere something to the rock, or embed it in a clear blob of material and it is all stuck to the rock.  Any chance there is a picture of something similar you could post, or describe the objective in more detail?  

---

## 2 answers

### Answer by username_5 on 2019-05-09. Score: 5

**Use a clear liquid epoxy resin, construction adhesive, 'Gorilla Glue', or 'Iron Grip' silicone adhesive**:

* > **Liquid epoxy resins** dry clear and hard, bonding stones that may not
  > fit snugly together. It may make some stones look wet in the area of
  > application. Since this resin is a liquid, it runs a bit after you
  > apply it, so it can pool beneath the stones if you use too much. Epoxy
  > resin works well on stones, both large and small.

  [![Result of stone glued to stone using epoxy resin](https://i.sstatic.net/u6MfD.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/u6MfD.jpg)  
  [source](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGyGkL7pDdw): smaller scale than what the OP might have in mind, but still a valid example of an end result. Be sure to work safer than the author, though.

  As per [this site](https://www.resinobsession.com/forums/topic/clear-cloudy-resin/), be sure to warm up the resin before application (though not with a heat gun or similar device), as this may help prevent it from turning cloudy.
  In case of outdoor use, be sure to pick an epoxy that is UV stabilized.  
  [Additionally](http://forums.sailinganarchy.com/index.php?/topic/179481-cloudy-chalky-epoxy/), make sure you apply it in a dry environment and protect it from getting wet (also while curing), and don't overmix it. \*

  **Update: you won't be able to get blobs with epoxy resin, unfortunately.**

The following glues are commonly or regularly used for glueing brick walls together, or glueing stones to a vertical surface.

* > **Construction adhesive**, offered in a caulk-style tube, creates bonds
  > strong enough to hold larger stones together, such as baseball-style
  > stones or river rocks around the perimeter of a homemade garden pond.

  Make sure you're using a clear variant.

  [source](https://www.ehow.com/how_8382380_glue-stones-together.html)
* '**[Clear Gorilla Glue](https://www.gorillatough.com/product/clear-gorilla-glue/)**' (no affiliation):

  > The strength and versatility you have come to expect from Gorilla Glue
  > is now available in an easy to use, crystal clear, non-foaming
  > formula. Clear Gorilla Glue is incredibly strong and is ideal for
  > indoor and outdoor applications and bonds virtually everything.

  See [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSNIzxkD450) for an example of mortar replacement. Mind that the regular unclear version is used.
* '**Iron Grip Adhesive Silicone**' (no affiliation):

  > Made from 100% silicone, GE Iron Grip adhesive works fast on almost
  > any porous and non-porous surface, including aluminum, steel, PVC,
  > glass, concrete, fiberglass, polystyrene, plywood, drywall, ceramic,
  > porcelain, stone, laminate, wood and MDF – indoors and out – all
  > without any extra surface prep.

  Clear curing. [Here](https://youtu.be/-PRsuAJuVqw?t=54)'s a commercial video, showing the glue used on concrete blocks. As always, check the [reviews](https://www.amazon.com/M90058-Iron-Silicone-Adhesive-Clear/product-reviews/B0763JS2P1/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_show_all_top?ie=UTF8&reviewerType=all_reviews).

\* More useful information on the application of epoxies can be found [here](http://www.oneoceankayaks.com/Epoxresl.htm#blush).

> **Comments:**
> **username_6**: I’d give you the bounty but I really wanted to see photos of dry clear glue in use.  
> **username_5**: @username_6 They're actually hard to find, excepting commercial videos. Especially of the clear curing ones it is hard to find proper illustrations. I've added some links, though.  
> **username_6**: You're right. I decided to post my own photos, after buying some of the glue.  

---

### Answer by username_6 on 2019-05-08. Score: 3

Liquid Nails Clear is a Selleys product made in Australia. We use liquid nails here as an all round building and construction glue, including masonry, metal, timber.

Their technical support people tell me:

“Liquid Nails Clear dries very clear with a clear bond line so you have a mess free bond line (you shouldn't be able to see it unless you look at it with an eagle eye.)”

Their instructions say it resists water, and. "24-48hrs strong bond. Cures in 14 days."

*UPDATE:*

**A test using two bricks**

Given the lack of actual photos (even from Selley's) I have done my own test using two house bricks. As you can see the join uses much more glue than necessary but wanted to test and then show its transparency. I think it passed. This product gets tacky very quickly. It's a glue I would *always* wear latex or other gloves with. (I do not need more chemicals in my body.)

Photo 1: Two bricks glued together using Selley’s Liquid Nails Clear:

[![Two house bricks glued together with Selley’s Liquid Nails Clear.](https://i.sstatic.net/vqksw.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/vqksw.jpg)

---

Photo 2: One strong joint. "24-48hrs strong bond. Cures in 14 days." (Bricks are not resting on ground by the way).

[![One strong joint!](https://i.sstatic.net/5YVlh.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/5YVlh.jpg)

> **Comments:**
> **username_0**: That is a great idea! I'll give it and other clear nail products a try. Thank you!  

---

