mineral

Fluorite

Fluorite (Calcium Fluoride, CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green (in this specimen); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic/octahedral cleavage); Specific Gravity: 3.18

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Color: Green to bluish-green (in this specimen)
Luster: Vitreous

Identified April 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green (in this specimen); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic/octahedral cleavage); Specific Gravity: 3.18

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily through hydrothermal activity in veins alongside lead, silver, and zinc ores. It can also occur in pegmatites and carbonate-hosted deposits. Formation spans various geological eras.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, and widely as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry and ornamental carvings.

Geological facts

Fluorite is famous for its wide range of colors, often called the 'most colorful mineral in the world'. It is also the defining mineral for hardness 4 on the Mohs scale.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its octahedral cleavage, relatively low hardness (can be scratched by a knife but not a copper coin), and often fluoresces under UV light. Common in localities like Illinois (USA), China, and Mexico.