mineral

Green Fluorite

Fluorite (Calcium Fluoride - CaF2)

Hardness 4 on the Mohs scale, pale mint green color, vitreous (glass-like) luster, isometric crystal system, perfect cleavage in four directions forming octahedrons, specific gravity around 3.18.

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 4 on the Mohs scale, pale mint green color, vitreous (glass-like) luster, isometric crystal system, perfect cleavage in four directions forming octahedrons, specific gravity around 3.18.

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal activity, where fluorine-bearing fluids interact with calcium-rich rocks in veins and cavities within limestone, granites, and hydrothermal mineral deposits.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steelmaking and aluminum smelting, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, as optical lenses for camera systems, and popular as lapidary material, carvings, and mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Fluorite gave its name to the phenomenon of fluorescence because many specimens glow under ultraviolet light. Pure fluorite is colorless, but impurities create a wide spectrum of vibrant colors, especially green, purple, blue, and yellow.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its hardness (scratched easily by a steel nail but not a fingernail), vitreous luster, distinct cubic or octahedral cleavage planes, and pale translucent green shade. Commonly found in China, Mexico, South Africa, England, and the USA (Illinois, Kentucky).