mineral

Green Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep emerald green; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.18

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale to deep emerald green
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified July 16, 2026More mineral →

Explore Green Fluorite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep emerald green; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.18

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal activity where hot, fluorine-rich fluids circulate through fractures in limestone or other host rocks. It is found in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits worldwide.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, in the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, in high-performance telescope lenses, and as a popular ornamental gemstone for jewelry and carvings.

Geological facts

Fluorite is famous for its wide range of colors and is known as the most colorful mineral in the world. It also gave its name to the phenomenon of fluorescence, as many specimens glow under UV light.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 4-way octahedral cleavage, glass-like luster, and relative softness (it can be scratched by a steel knife but can scratch a copper coin). Found commonly in China, Mexico, and Illinois, USA.