mineral
Apatite
Calcium phosphate fluoride/chloride, Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 5, colors ranging from blue, green, yellow, to purple, vitreous to sub-resinous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity of 3.1-3.2
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 5, colors ranging from blue, green, yellow, to purple, vitreous to sub-resinous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity of 3.1-3.2
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments; commonly found in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry, a source of phosphorus for fertilizer, and by mineral collectors
Geological facts
Apatite is the defining mineral for 5 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is also the main component of tooth enamel and bones in vertebrates.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive hexagonal crystal form and hardness of 5 (can be scratched by a knife, but scratches glass with difficulty). Found globally, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, Mexico, and Myanmar.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary