mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite, Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

Hardness: 5 on the Mohs scale; Color: typically neon or deep blue in this specimen; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16 to 3.22

Hardness: 5 on the Mohs scale
Color: typically neon or deep blue in this specimen
Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous

Identified April 7, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5 on the Mohs scale; Color: typically neon or deep blue in this specimen; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16 to 3.22

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks through the cooling of magma or the metamorphism of organic-rich sediments. It is a common accessory mineral found globally in pegmatites and metamorphic limestone.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a source of phosphorus for fertilizer. High-quality specimens are used in jewelry (though soft for rings) and lapidary arts. It is also a popular collector's mineral and used in holistic practices.

Geological facts

Apatite is the mineral used to define the '5' on the Mohs hardness scale. The name is derived from the Greek word 'apate', meaning 'to deceive', because it was historically confused with other minerals like beryl or olivine.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic blue-green color and its relatively low hardness (cannot scratch glass but can be scratched by a steel knife). Commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, and Mexico.