Blue Apatite

Hardness 5 on Mohs scale, deep teal-blue color, vitreous to greasy luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity 3.1-3.2

Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites and nepheline syenites, as well as metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal veins.

Used primarily for jewelry (beads, cabochons, carved ornaments), mineral specimens, and major industrial source of phosphorus for fertilizers.

Apatite defines level 5 on the Mohs hardness scale. Its name comes from the Greek word 'apate', meaning 'deceit', because it was historically often confused with other gemstones like beryl, tourmaline, and topaz.

Identify by its distinctive teal/blue-green color, vitreous luster, and moderate hardness (scratched by glass or a steel knife). Commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, and Mexico.