mineral
Apatite
Fluorapatite / Chlorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH))
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: neon blue to forest green; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 3.1-3.2
- Hardness
- 5 on Mohs scale
- Color
- neon blue to forest green
- Luster
- vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: neon blue to forest green; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 3.1-3.2
Formation & geological history
Commonly forms in igneous pegmatites, metamorphic rocks, and sedimentary rocks (as phosphate nodules). It is often found in contact metamorphic rocks.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in the manufacture of phosphate fertilizers; translucent specimens are often used as gemstones or polished as tumbled stones for metaphysical collecting.
Geological facts
Apatite is the defining mineral for level 5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. The name is derived from the Greek word 'apate', meaning to 'deceive', because it was often confused with other minerals like peridot or beryl.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive blue-green color and hexagonal crystal habits. It is found globally with notable deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and Myanmar. Caution: it is brittle and sensitive to heat.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
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