mineral

Apatite

Apatite group mineral (e.g., Fluorapatite - Ca5(PO4)3F, Chlorapatite - Ca5(PO4)3Cl, Hydroxylapatite - Ca5(PO4)3(OH))

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft. Color: Commonly blue, green, yellow, pink, purple, or colorless. The specimen appears to be blue apatite. Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous. Crystal structure: Hexagonal prism, often with pyramidal terminations. Cleavage: Indistinct on one plane.…

Hardness: 5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft
Color: Commonly blue, green, yellow, pink, purple, or colorless
Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous

Identified October 25, 2025More mineral →

Explore Apatite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Apatite forms in a variety of geological settings. It is a common accessory mineral in igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks (especially limestones and phosphorites), and metamorphic rocks. It can also be found in hydrothermal veins. The blue variety often occurs in pegmatites or metamorphic limestones. Its formation is typically associated with the presence of phosphorus-rich solutions or melts over a wide range of geological ages, from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Apatite is the primary source of phosphorus for fertilizers, making it crucial in agriculture. High-quality transparent varieties are faceted for collectors, although its softness limits its use in mainstream jewelry. It is also used in the production of phosphoric acid and other phosphate-based chemicals. Hydroxylapatite is a major component of tooth enamel and bone, and synthetic forms are used in biomedical applications for bone grafts and dental implants.

Geological facts

The name 'Apatite' comes from the Greek word 'apatein', meaning 'to deceive', because it is often confused with other minerals like tourmaline, beryl, or olivine due to its varied color and crystal forms. It is considered a relatively soft gemstone and is therefore not recommended for everyday wear in jewelry. Despite its industrial importance, gem-quality apatite is quite rare.

Field identification & locations

Apatite can be identified in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit, relatively low hardness (easily scratched by a steel file), and vitreous luster. Its wide range of colors can make identification difficult without a hardness test. Blue apatite is often found in Brazil, Madagascar, Mexico, and Canada. Other significant localities include the USA, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. Collectors often seek out well-formed crystals and unusual color variations. Remember its softness when handling to prevent scratches.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Mineral Sand (Heavy Mineral Sand Concentrate)

Placer deposit concentrate containing minerals such as ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and magnetite

mineral

Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining

Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides

mineral

Septarian Pebble

Septarian nodule / Concretion

sedimentary

Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments

Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic