mineral

Green Fluorite

Fluorite (Calcium Fluoride, CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.18.

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

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.18.

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily through hydrothermal activity, often in veins alongside lead and silver ores. It can also be found in vugs within limestone and dolostone. Geological age varies greatly by deposit Locality (e.g., Illinois or China).

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, in the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, special high-clarity lenses for cameras and telescopes, and extensively as a lapidary and ornamental gemstone.

Geological facts

Fluorite is where the term 'fluorescence' comes from, as many specimens glow strongly under UV light. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world' due to the wide range of hues it can take.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic octahedral cleavage fragments and its relatively low hardness (can be scratched by a steel nail). Commonly found in China, Mexico, South Africa, and Illinois, USA.