mineral
Fluorite (Rainbow Fluorite Point)
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, green, blue, and yellow banding; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.18
- Hardness
- 4 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Purple, green, blue, and yellow banding
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, green, blue, and yellow banding; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.18
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal activity, often in veins alongside metallic ores like lead and silver. It can also occur in sedimentary rocks or as a primary mineral in igneous rocks. Most commercial specimens are from the Phanerozoic eon.
Uses & applications
Used as a flux in steel smelting, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, and high-performance telescope/camera lenses. In jewelry and collecting, it is popular for ornamental carvings and lapidary points.
Geological facts
Fluorite is naturally fluorescent under UV light; the word 'fluorescence' is actually derived from the mineral name. Pure fluorite is colorless; the vibrant colors are caused by impurities and radiation damage to the crystal lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct 4-directional cleavage and relative softness (it can be scratched by a steel knife but not a copper penny). Commonly found in China, Mexico, South Africa, and Illinois, USA.
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