mineral

Green Fluorite

Fluorite (Calcium Fluoride, CaF2)

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale to deep green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral (four directions); Specific Gravity: 3.175–3.184.

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale to deep green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale to deep green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral (four directions); Specific Gravity: 3.175–3.184.

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal activity, often in veins alongside lead and zinc ores, or in vugs in limestone and dolomite. It occurs in a wide range of geological periods from Precambrian to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, in the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, high-clarity optical lenses for cameras and telescopes, and as a popular semi-precious gemstone/ornamental stone for carvers and collectors.

Geological facts

Fluorite is often strongly fluorescent under ultraviolet light (the term 'fluorescence' is actually named after this mineral). It is considered 'the most colorful mineral in the world' because it can occur in almost any color of the spectrum.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 4-directional cleavage (breaking into octahedrons), its ability to be scratched by a knife but not a copper penny, and its cubic crystal habit. Common locations include China, Mexico, South Africa, and the UK (famous 'Blue John' variety).