mineral

Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, exhibits vibrant colors including green and purple zones, vitreous luster, isometric crystal system with perfect octahedral cleavage, and specific gravity of approximately 3.18.

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed mainly in hydrothermal veins by crystallization from solutions associated with cooling magma, and sometimes as a replacement mineral in limestone. Can be found worldwide in various geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used widely in metallurgy as a flux, in the manufacture of opalescent glass, enamelware, and hydrofluoric acid, as well as being a popular specimen for mineral collectors and sometimes carved into ornamental objects.

Geological facts

Fluorite is the mineral chosen for a hardness of 4 on the Mohs hardness scale. It gives the term 'fluorescence' its name because many specimens fluoresce strongly under ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its relatively low hardness (can be scratched easily with a knife), perfect cleavage, and often striking purple and green color zoning. Commonly found in locations such as China, Mexico, South Africa, and the UK.