mineral
Fluorite
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Green, purple, clear; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.175–3.184.
- Hardness
- 4 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Green, purple, clear
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Green, purple, clear; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.175–3.184.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ores like lead and silver, or in sedimentary rocks like limestone via hydrothermal activity.
Uses & applications
Used as a flux in steel making, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, in high-performance telescopes/camera lenses, and as a popular semi-precious gemstone/collector specimen.
Geological facts
Fluorite is the origin of the term 'fluorescence' because many specimens glow under UV light. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world'.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its octahedral cleavage, cubic crystal habit, and the fact it can be scratched by a knife but scratches a copper penny. Commonly found in China, Mexico, and the USA (Illinois/Kentucky).
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Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
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Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
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