mineral
Blue Apatite
Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Vibrant blue to teal, Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Poor on {0001}, Specific Gravity: 3.1-3.2
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Vibrant blue to teal, Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Poor on {0001}, Specific Gravity: 3.1-3.2
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, often crystallizing in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in fertilizer production due to phosphate content, as a gemstone for jewelry (though soft), and popular among mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Apatite is the defining mineral for a hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. Teeth and bones in vertebrate animals are composed of a form of apatite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive blue color, hexagonal crystal form when well-developed, and its characteristic hardness of 5. Found worldwide including in Brazil, Madagascar, and Mexico.
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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