mineral

Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Neon blue to teal with internal white veining; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.16–3.22

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale
Color: Neon blue to teal with internal white veining
Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous

Identified March 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Neon blue to teal with internal white veining; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.16–3.22

Formation & geological history

Formed as a common accessory mineral in igneous rocks (pegmatites), metamorphic rocks (skarns), and sedimentary rocks. Quality blue specimens are often found in Madagascar or Brazil, forming across various geological ages via magmatic or hydrothermal processes.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a source of phosphorus for fertilizers in its bulk industrial form. Gem-quality specimens are used in jewelry, lapidary spheres, and as 'collector stones' due to their vibrant color.

Geological facts

Apatite is the defining mineral for level 5 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is chemically identical to the primary mineral component of human teeth and bones (hydroxyapatite).

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct blue-green color and its ability to be scratched by a steel blade. It is commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and Myanmar. Collector tip: Be careful with jewelry as its hardness of 5 makes it prone to scratching.