mineral

Blue-green apatite crystal in matrix

Apatite-group phosphate, commonly fluorapatite (Ca₅(PO₄)₃F)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The specimen appears to contain a blue-green, vitreous crystal with a rough brown matrix; apatite is Mohs 5, has a hexagonal crystal system, and indistinct cleavage. Color and appearance alone cannot confirm the mineral identification.

Identified October 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Apatite forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, pegmatites, and hydrothermal veins, as well as sedimentary phosphate deposits. Its age depends on the host deposit and cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Apatite is the principal source of phosphate for fertilizers; transparent, well-formed crystals are also cut as gemstones and collected.

Geological facts

Apatite’s name derives from Greek for “to deceive,” because it can be mistaken for other gemstones. It is also a major mineral component of bones and teeth.

Field identification & locations

Check for hexagonal crystal faces and hardness near 5; the blue-green color is not diagnostic, so testing or laboratory analysis may be needed. Occurrences are worldwide, including pegmatites and phosphate deposits.