mineral

Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH))

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Vibrant neon blue to teal; Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor on {0001}; Specific Gravity: 3.1 - 3.2

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale
Color: Vibrant neon blue to teal
Luster: Vitreous to sub-resinous

Identified August 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Vibrant neon 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 crystallized in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone, in mineral specimens for collectors, and as a primary source of phosphorus for fertilizers.

Geological facts

Apatite is the defining mineral for the 5th point on the Mohs hardness scale. Its name comes from the Greek word 'apatein', meaning 'to deceive', because it is easily confused with other minerals like tourmaline and beryl.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive hexagonal crystal form, lower hardness (can be scratched with a knife), and vibrant color variations. Found worldwide including Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia.