mineral
Apatite
Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5 on the Mohs scale; green, blue, yellow, or purple colors; vitreous to sub-resinous luster; hexagonal crystal system; poor cleavage; specific gravity around 3.1 - 3.2
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale; green, blue, yellow, or purple colors; vitreous to sub-resinous luster; hexagonal crystal system; poor cleavage; specific gravity around 3.1 - 3.2
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, often crystallizing as an accessory mineral in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Primary source of phosphorus for fertilizer manufacturing, used in specialty gemstone collections, and as a flux in metallurgy.
Geological facts
Apatite is the defining mineral for a hardness of 5 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is also the mineral group that makes up the main component of teeth and bones in vertebrates.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive hexagonal crystal form, 5 Mohs hardness (can be scratched by a knife), and typical green or blue coloration. Found worldwide, notably in Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and Canada.
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Epidote
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Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral