mineral

Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Green (in this specimen), can lead to purple, blue, or yellow; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); cleavage: perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.175–3.56.

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous

Identified May 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal activity, often in veins with metallic ores or in sedimentary rocks like limestone. It precipitates as hot, mineral-rich fluids cool.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, high-quality camera lenses (due to low dispersion), and for decorative carvings or jewelry.

Geological facts

Fluorite is highly fluorescent under UV light; the term 'fluorescence' is actually derived from the name of the mineral fluorite itself.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its cubic crystal habit, perfect cleavage into octahedrons, and its ability to be scratched by a steel pocketknife while scratching a copper coin. Commonly found in China, Mexico, and the UK.