mineral
Blue Apatite
Fluorapatite / Apatite group (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH))
Hardness 5 on Mohs scale, deep rich royal blue color, vitreous to sub-resinous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor/indistinct cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity 3.1-3.2.
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Physical properties
Hardness 5 on Mohs scale, deep rich royal blue color, vitreous to sub-resinous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor/indistinct cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity 3.1-3.2.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and regionally metamorphosed rocks rich in calcium and phosphate.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a gemstone specimen for mineral collectors, carved into beads/ornaments, and raw phosphate rock is mined for agricultural fertilizers.
Geological facts
Apatite is the defining mineral for hardness 5 on the Mohs scale. The name comes from the Greek word 'apate', meaning 'deceit', because it was historically confused with other minerals like sapphire, tourmaline, and beryl.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive vibrant royal blue hue, Mohs hardness of 5 (can be scratched by a steel knife), and brittle conchoidal fracture. Commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, and Mexico.
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