mineral
Blue Apatite
Fluorapatite / Apatite Group Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)
Vibrant neon-blue to teal color with vitreous to greasy luster. Hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. Hexagonal crystal system with imperfect cleavage.
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Physical properties
Vibrant neon-blue to teal color with vitreous to greasy luster. Hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. Hexagonal crystal system with imperfect cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites, as well as metamorphic rocks such as marbles and skarns. Often created during late-stage igneous crystallization.
Uses & applications
Primary source of phosphorus for fertilizer manufacturing. Bright blue varieties are popular as gemstones, beads, and polished mineral specimens for collectors.
Geological facts
Apatite gets its name from the Greek word 'apate', which means 'deceit', because it was historically confused with other minerals like beryl, tourmaline, and topaz.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive electric blue color, brittle nature, and hardness of 5 (can be scratched by a steel knife). Commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia.
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