mineral
Fluorite
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Highly variable including purple, green, yellow, blue, and clear. Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous. Crystal structure: Isometric, often forming cubic crystals. Cleavage: Perfect octahedral cleavage in four directions. Specific gravity: 3.18.
- Hardness
- 4 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Highly variable including purple, green, yellow, blue, and clear. Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous. Crystal structure: Isometric, often forming cubic crystals. Cleavage: Perfect octahedral cleavage in four directions. Specific gravity: 3.18.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ores like lead and zinc, as well as in cavities in limestone and dolostone. Geological age varies widely depending on the deposit.
Uses & applications
Used in metallurgy as a flux, in the manufacture of opalescent glass and enamels, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and lapidary arts.
Geological facts
Fluorite gives fluorescence its name, as many specimens glow strongly under ultraviolet light due to impurities like yttrium or organic matter. It is known as the most colorful mineral in the world.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic cubic crystal habit, perfect octahedral cleavage, and relatively low hardness (easily scratched with a knife). Common locations include China, Mexico, South Africa, UK, and the USA.
