mineral

Apatite

Fluorapatite, Chlorapatite, and Hydroxylapatite (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH))

Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale); Color: Typically green to blue, but also yellow, violet, or colorless; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.16 to 3.22.

Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous

Identified January 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks like pegmatites, metamorphic rocks such as marble, and sedimentary rocks (phosphorites). It is common in various geological ages and often occurs in hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a source of phosphorus for fertilizers. High-quality specimens are used by collectors and occasionally cut as gemstones, though their softness limits use in jewelry.

Geological facts

Apatite is the defining mineral for level 5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. It is also the mineral that makes up the teeth and bones of all vertebrate animals, including humans.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct hexagonal crystal habit and its ability to be scratched by a steel knife (but not by a penny). Highly common in Madagascar, Brazil, and Canada.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral