mineral
Blue Apatite
Fluorapatite / Apatite (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH))
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Vibrant neon blue to turquoise with brownish-red matrix; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16-3.22
- Hardness
- 5 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Vibrant neon blue to turquoise with brownish-red matrix
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Vibrant neon blue to turquoise with brownish-red matrix; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16-3.22
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous pegmatites, metamorphic rocks (marbles), and hydrothermal veins. Commonly found in association with host minerals like feldspar and iron oxides.
Uses & applications
Mainly used as a source of phosphorus in fertilizer manufacturing, as a decorative gemstone, for lapidary carving, and in mineral collections.
Geological facts
Apatite is the defining mineral for hardness 5 on Mohs scale. Its name comes from the Greek word 'apate', meaning 'deceit', because it was historically confused with other minerals like tourmaline and beryl.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive bright blue color, moderate softness (scratched by a steel knife), and hexagonal crystal habits or glassy cleavage surfaces. Major sources include Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia.
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