mineral
Fluorite
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Green, purple, blue, or colorless; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Cubic or octahedral; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.1-3.3
- Hardness
- 4 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Green, purple, blue, or colorless
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Green, purple, blue, or colorless; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Cubic or octahedral; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.1-3.3
Formation & geological history
Commonly forms as a late-stage mineral in hydrothermal veins, often associated with lead and zinc ores. It can also be found in sedimentary rocks and pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used as a flux in steel and aluminum manufacturing, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, as high-performance optical lenses, and for lapidary and jewelry purposes.
Geological facts
Fluorite is the origin of the term 'fluorescence' because many specimens glow under ultraviolet light. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (softer than glass/quartz), perfect cleavage, and vibrant colors. Located worldwide with significant deposits in China, Mexico, and South Africa.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary