Fluorite Bracelet (light green beads) and possibly Lavender Jadeite (purple bead)

Fluorite: Hardness 4 on Mohs scale; light green, purple, blue, yellow, clear; vitreous luster; cubic crystal system; perfect octahedral cleavage; specific gravity 3.18. Jadeite: Hardness 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; typically green, but can be lavender, white, orange, brown, black; vitreous to greasy luster; monoclinic crystal system; tough, compact aggregate (not distinct crystals); specific gravity 3.30-3.46.

Fluorite: Forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ores. Can also be found in sedimentary and igneous rocks. Geological age varies greatly depending on the specific deposit. Jadeite: Forms under high pressure and relatively low temperatures in metamorphic rocks, especially in subduction zones. Typically found in rocks like jadeitite. Its formation requires specific conditions, often associated with serpentine rocks, and is generally Mesozoic to Cenozoic in age.

Fluorite: Used in metallurgy as a flux, in the production of hydrofluoric acid for various industrial uses, and as an ornamental stone. Gem-quality fluorite is cut into beads and carvings. Jadeite: Highly prized as a gemstone for jewelry (beads, cabochons, carvings) and ornamental objects, particularly in East Asian cultures. Its extreme toughness makes it suitable for intricate carvings.

Fluorite is known as 'the most colorful mineral in the world' because of its wide range of vibrant colors and distinct fluorescence under UV light (hence its name). Jadeite is one of the two distinct minerals known as 'jade' (the other being nephrite), and is considered the more precious and rarer variety. The purple variety of jadeite is often called 'lavender jade' and is highly valued.

In the field, Fluorite can be identified by its relative softness (scratches with a knife) and its perfect octahedral cleavage, which can result in specimens breaking into eight-sided pyramids. Its fluorescence is also a key identifier. It is found globally, with significant deposits in China, Mexico, Mongolia, and the USA. Jadeite is identified by its exceptional toughness (resistance to breakage), high specific gravity (feels heavy for its size), and often a characteristic dimpled or granular surface on rough or partially polished pieces. It can be distinguished from nephrite by its higher density and hardness. Major occurrences of gem-quality jadeite are primarily in Myanmar (Burma), but also found in Guatemala, Russia, and Japan. The items shown are likely polished beads, common in jewelry. The light green beads are consistent with fluorite due to their color and translucency, while the larger purple bead resembles lavender jadeite in color and luster.