Rock Identifier
Likely fluorite fragments (Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)) — mineral
mineral

Likely fluorite fragments

Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The clear, colorless and vivid green translucent fragments resemble fluorite: vitreous luster, cubic crystal structure, perfect octahedral cleavage, Mohs hardness 4, and specific gravity about 3.18. The pieces appear broken or cleaved rather than naturally weathered.

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Physical properties

The clear, colorless and vivid green translucent fragments resemble fluorite: vitreous luster, cubic crystal structure, perfect octahedral cleavage, Mohs hardness 4, and specific gravity about 3.18. The pieces appear broken or cleaved rather than naturally weathered.

Formation & geological history

Fluorite forms in hydrothermal veins and cavities, commonly with quartz, calcite, and sulfide minerals. It occurs in many ages of mineralized rocks; the region around 50.6°N, 8.4°E (central Hesse) has plausible hydrothermal and vein-mineral occurrences.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel and aluminum production, for hydrofluoric acid, and as collectible or lapidary material. Attractive transparent pieces may be worth more than ordinary industrial-grade fluorite.

Geological facts

Fluorite commonly fluoresces blue, violet, green, or cream under ultraviolet light. Color zoning and cubic cleavage are characteristic, but glass or calcite can look similar.

Field identification & locations

Check for flat cleavage surfaces, cubic/octahedral geometry, and easy scratching with a steel knife; fluorite should not scratch glass. A UV test and hardness test help distinguish it from glass, while acid effervescence would suggest calcite instead.