mineral

Green Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale. Color: Light green to mint green. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Cubic. Cleavage: Perfect octahedral. Specific Gravity: 3.175-3.56.

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

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale. Color: Light green to mint green. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Cubic. Cleavage: Perfect octahedral. Specific Gravity: 3.175-3.56.

Formation & geological history

Found in hydrothermal veins as a gangue mineral, often associated with metallic ores. Formed through the deposition of calcium and fluorine from hot aqueous solutions within the Earth's crust.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, in the manufacture of opalescent glass, for enamels on cooking utensils, and in the production of hydrofluoric acid. Also popular for lapidary use and as a collector specimen.

Geological facts

Fluorite was the original mineral used to define 'fluorescence' because many specimens glow under ultraviolet light. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic cubic crystals, octahedral cleavage, and softness (it can be scratched by a steel knife). Commonly found in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the USA (Illinois/Kentucky).