mineral

Likely fluorite or another fluorescent mineral

Uncertain from the ultraviolet-tinted image; possible fluorite (CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

A rounded, pale lavender specimen with a dull-to-waxy luster; fluorite is Mohs hardness 4, commonly cubic with perfect octahedral cleavage, and specific gravity about 3.18. The purple coloration may be fluorescence or simply UV-altered photography.

Identified September 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Fluorite forms mainly in hydrothermal veins, cavities, and carbonate rocks, commonly from Paleozoic to Cenozoic mineralizing events. Exact identification and age require normal lighting, hardness, cleavage, and locality information.

Uses & applications

Fluorite is used as a flux in steel and aluminum production, hydrofluoric-acid manufacture, optics, and as a collector mineral; attractive purple crystals are occasionally cut as gemstones.

Geological facts

Purple fluorite is often banded or zoned and may fluoresce blue, violet, or green under ultraviolet light, depending on impurities. The image’s heavy purple lighting prevents reliable distinction from calcite, quartz, or dyed material.

Field identification & locations

Check for cubic form or octahedral cleavage and test hardness against a steel knife and glass; acid reaction would suggest calcite instead. Important localities include Illinois and Kentucky, China, Mexico, England, and Spain.