mineral
Fluorite
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, highly variable in color (showing purple, green, and white hues here), vitreous luster, isometric crystal system, perfect octahedral cleavage, specific gravity of 3.18
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Physical properties
Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, highly variable in color (showing purple, green, and white hues here), vitreous luster, isometric crystal system, perfect octahedral cleavage, specific gravity of 3.18
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and carbonate rock cavities, often precipitated from hydrothermal solutions at various geological ages
Uses & applications
Used in metallurgy as a flux, in the manufacturing of optical equipment, and widely collected for display and ornamental carvings
Geological facts
Fluorite is the mineral chosen as the standard for hardness 4 on the Mohs scale. It exhibits strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light, which is where the term 'fluorescence' originates
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its relatively low hardness (can be scratched with a knife) and perfect cleavage; commonly found worldwide including in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the UK
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