Rock Identifier
Blue polished/tumbled stone, likely blue apatite or dyed quartz (Apatite-group mineral, commonly fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F); exact identification requires testing) — mineral
mineral

Blue polished/tumbled stone, likely blue apatite or dyed quartz

Apatite-group mineral, commonly fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F); exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque-to-translucent blue, vitreous-to-waxy luster, rounded tumbled form, and no visible cleavage. Apatite has Mohs hardness 5; dyed quartz would be harder at 7, so a scratch test can distinguish them.

Identified More mineral
Explore Blue polished/tumbled stone, likely blue apatite or dyed quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Opaque-to-translucent blue, vitreous-to-waxy luster, rounded tumbled form, and no visible cleavage. Apatite has Mohs hardness 5; dyed quartz would be harder at 7, so a scratch test can distinguish them.

Formation & geological history

Natural blue apatite forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks through hydrothermal or magmatic processes; quartz forms in veins and cavities. Geological ages vary widely, from Precambrian to recent deposits.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a lapidary and collector stone; apatite is also an important phosphate ore, while quartz is used in glass, electronics, and abrasives.

Geological facts

The intense, fairly uniform blue color may indicate dyeing or surface treatment, and the photograph alone cannot confirm species or treatment.

Field identification & locations

Common sources of blue apatite include Brazil, Madagascar, Mexico, and Canada; blue quartz and dyed stones are more widespread. Check hardness, streak, specific gravity, and fluorescence, or use Raman/XRF testing for reliable identification.