mineral
Blue Apatite
Fluorapatite / Apatite Group (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH))
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep teal-blue, greenish-blue, or navy with swirling white/grey matrix patterns. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Poor. Specific Gravity: 3.1 - 3.2.
- Hardness
- 5 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep teal-blue, greenish-blue, or navy with swirling white/grey matrix patterns. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal System: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Poor. Specific Gravity: 3.1 - 3.2.
Formation & geological history
Forms in pegmatites, metamorphic rocks, and igneous intrusions through magmatic and hydrothermal processes. Rich in calcium phosphate and fluorine.
Uses & applications
Popular for gemstones, beads, tumbled collector stones, and carvings. High-purity apatite is also utilized industrially as a major source of phosphorus for fertilizer production.
Geological facts
Apatite gets its name from the Greek word 'apate', meaning 'deceit', because it was historically easily confused with other minerals like beryl, tourmaline, and aquamarine due to its wide range of colors.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive deep teal-blue hue, soft harness (can be scratched by a steel knife), and characteristic vitreous to waxy polish. Commonly sourced from Madagascar, Brazil, and Mexico.
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