mineral
Fluorite
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: typically green, purple, yellow, or clear; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic or octahedral); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific gravity: 3.175–3.184.
- Hardness
- 4 on Mohs scale
- Color
- typically green, purple, yellow, or clear
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: typically green, purple, yellow, or clear; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic or octahedral); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific gravity: 3.175–3.184.
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal activity, often in veins or as a gangue mineral in metallic ores. It can form in various temperatures and is found worldwide in sedimentary and igneous environments.
Uses & applications
Used as a flux in steel making, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, in high-performance optical lenses (due to low dispersion), as a gemstone, and in ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Fluorite is the most colorful mineral in the world. It was the original source for the discovery of fluorescence, as many specimens glow under ultraviolet light. It is also the state mineral of Illinois.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic 4-way octahedral cleavage, glass-like luster, and relative softness (it can be scratched by a steel knife but can scratch a copper coin). Common locations include China, Mexico, South Africa, and the UK.
