mineral
Fluorite
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, exhibits vibrant color zoning (purple, green, yellow), vitreous luster, isometric crystal system, perfect octahedral cleavage, and a specific gravity of 3.18.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, exhibits vibrant color zoning (purple, green, yellow), vitreous luster, isometric crystal system, perfect octahedral cleavage, and a specific gravity of 3.18.
Formation & geological history
Formed mainly in hydrothermal veins as a gangue mineral associated with lead, zinc, and silver ores, and also in sedimentary and carbonatite rocks.
Uses & applications
Used in metallurgy as a flux, in the manufacturing of optical equipment, hydrofluoric acid production, and widely collected as mineral specimens and carved into ornamental objects.
Geological facts
Fluorite is the origin of the term 'fluorescence', as many specimens glow strongly under ultraviolet light due to impurities like europium or organic matter.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic low hardness (scratched by a knife but not a fingernail), perfect cleavage, and frequent multi-color banding. Found worldwide, notably in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the UK.
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