mineral
Fluorite
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, cubic crystal system, and perfect octahedral cleavage. Colors range from colorless and green to purple and yellow.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, cubic crystal system, and perfect octahedral cleavage. Colors range from colorless and green to purple and yellow.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in hydrothermal veins and carbonate sedimentary rocks through mineral-rich fluid precipitation.
Uses & applications
Widely used in metallurgy as a flux, in the manufacturing of optical lenses, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Fluorite exhibits strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light, a phenomenon named after the mineral itself.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its characteristic cubic crystal habit and lower hardness than quartz; commonly found in worldwide localities including China, Mexico, and the UK.
