mineral
Blue Apatite
Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH))
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 5, vibrant blue color, vitreous to sub-resinous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor cleavage, and specific gravity of approximately 3.2.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 5, vibrant blue color, vitreous to sub-resinous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor cleavage, and specific gravity of approximately 3.2.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the crystallization of phosphate-rich magmas and hydrothermal fluids.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in the production of phosphate fertilizers, phosphoric acid, and as a popular collector mineral or lapidary gemstone.
Geological facts
Apatite is the defining mineral for a hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale and is chemically similar to the material comprising human teeth and bones.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinct blue color, hexagonal crystal habit, and characteristic hardness that can be scratched by a knife. Commonly sourced from Madagascar, Brazil, 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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous