mineral

Green Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to mint green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Cubic/Octahedral; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.18

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale green to mint green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to mint green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Cubic/Octahedral; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.18

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms as a hydrothermal mineral in veins, often associated with metallic ores like lead and silver. It can also be found in the cavities of sedimentary rocks or as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks like granite.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel and aluminum smelting, in the manufacturing of hydrofluoric acid, high-precision optical lenses (low dispersion), and as a popular semi-precious gemstone for carving and collecting.

Geological facts

Fluorite was the first mineral for which the phenomenon of 'fluorescence' was named. It glow under ultraviolet light because of impurities in the crystal lattice. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its softness (can be scratched by a knife but not a penny) and its characteristic octahedral cleavage fragments. Often found in mining districts in China, Mexico, and the USA (Illinois, Kentucky).