mineral

Fluorite specimen

Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Likely pale purple, blue-green and colorless fluorite with vitreous luster and cubic crystal structure; hardness Mohs 4, perfect octahedral cleavage, and specific gravity about 3.18. The rough, irregular piece appears natural rather than polished.

Identified August 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in hydrothermal veins and cavities, often with quartz, calcite, or barite; deposits range from Paleozoic to younger geological ages. Common sources include China, Mexico, the United States, England, and Morocco.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as a flux in steelmaking and aluminum production, and as a source of fluorine; transparent colorful specimens are collected and occasionally faceted as gemstones. It is generally too soft for durable everyday jewelry.

Geological facts

Fluorite commonly shows purple, green, blue, yellow, or multicolored zoning, and some varieties fluoresce strongly under ultraviolet light. Its cubic cleavage and relatively low hardness help distinguish it from quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its vivid zoning, glassy luster, softness, and cleavage; a steel knife may scratch it, while it can scratch fingernail only weakly or not at all. The pictured specimen could also contain associated quartz or calcite, so exact identification requires testing.