mineral

Fluorite

Calcium fluoride (CaF2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 4, isometric crystal structure, perfect cleavage in four directions. Exhibits vitreous luster and occurs in a wide variety of colors, commonly green, purple, yellow, or blue.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness 4, isometric crystal structure, perfect cleavage in four directions. Exhibits vitreous luster and occurs in a wide variety of colors, commonly green, purple, yellow, or blue.

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ores like lead and zinc, and as a gangue mineral in pegmatites and carbonate rocks.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as a flux in steelmaking, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, and in specialized optics. Also popular among collectors and sometimes carved into ornamental objects.

Geological facts

Fluorite is the mineral for which the phenomenon of fluorescence was named, as many specimens glow under ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its octahedral cleavage, relatively low hardness, and cubic crystal habit. Found worldwide, with notable deposits in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the USA.