mineral

Green Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale to mint green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.18

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

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale to mint green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.18

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in hydrothermal veins often associated with lead and zinc ores, or in vugs in limestones and dolostones. Often found in deposits from the Mesozoic era.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steelmaking, in the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, and widely in jewelry for beads and ornamental carvings.

Geological facts

Fluorite is famous for its wide Range of colors and is the namesake of the phenomenon of fluorescence; it glowed under UV light. It is often called the most colorful mineral in the world.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its softness (can be scratched by a knife but not a copper penny) and its distinct cubic crystal habit or octahedral cleavage fragments. Often found in Illinois, USA; China; and Mexico.