mineral

Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Teal, neon blue, or greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal System: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16 to 3.22

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale
Color: Teal, neon blue, or greenish-blue
Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Teal, neon blue, or greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal System: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16 to 3.22

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks. Most neon blue varieties are found in Madagascar and Brazil, formed millions of years ago in phosphate-rich environments.

Uses & applications

Primary source of phosphorus for fertilizers; gem-quality stones are used in jewelry (though soft), and it is highly popular as a collector specimen and for metaphysical uses.

Geological facts

Apatite is the defining mineral for hardness 5 on the Mohs scale. Despite its beauty, it is rarely used in rings due to its softness and susceptibility to acids and heat.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic 'neon' teal color and its ability to be scratched by a steel knife (distinguishing it from harder beryl or topaz). Look for hexagonal crystal fragments and a greasy to glassy luster.