mineral
Blue apatite (likely rough/tumbled specimen)
Apatite group, commonly fluorapatite — Ca5(PO4)3F
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically blue to blue-green with a vitreous luster and imperfect cleavage; Mohs hardness 5, hexagonal crystal system, and specific gravity about 3.1–3.2. The specimen appears vividly blue and partly translucent, though surface treatment or dye cannot be excluded from the image.
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Physical properties
Typically blue to blue-green with a vitreous luster and imperfect cleavage; Mohs hardness 5, hexagonal crystal system, and specific gravity about 3.1–3.2. The specimen appears vividly blue and partly translucent, though surface treatment or dye cannot be excluded from the image.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks such as pegmatites and nepheline syenites, and in some metamorphic and sedimentary phosphate deposits. Apatite is widespread and ranges from ancient Precambrian deposits to modern geological environments.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a phosphate source for fertilizer and phosphoric acid; transparent blue material is cut as a collector gemstone, but it is relatively soft and scratches easily.
Geological facts
Apatite is the reference mineral for Mohs hardness 5. It is also the principal phosphate mineral in bones and teeth, making biologic apatite chemically related to geological fluorapatite.
Field identification & locations
Identify blue apatite by its blue-green color, glassy luster, moderate softness, and hexagonal habit; avoid confusing it with turquoise, fluorite, or glass. Important localities include Brazil, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Canada, and Norway.
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