![Blue Apatite (Fluorapatite / Chlorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/00e771c2-d9f8-4413-b791-21aff3801fc1-compressed.jpg)
mineral
Blue Apatite
Fluorapatite / Chlorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)]
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep teal-blue to neon blue with white or grey streaks; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16–3.22
- Hardness
- 5 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Deep teal-blue to neon blue with white or grey streaks
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep teal-blue to neon blue with white or grey streaks; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.16–3.22
Formation & geological history
Formed in various geological environments, most commonly in igneous pegmatites and metamorphic rocks like marble. Often found as small accessory minerals in many different rock types spanning through the Precambrian to Cenozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Primary source of phosphorus for chemical fertilizers; also used in jewelry as gemstones (though limited by its softness) and highly valued as a collector's mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Apatite is the mineral that makes up the majority of human teeth enamel and bone mineral. The name is derived from the Greek word 'apatein,' meaning 'to deceive,' because it was often mistaken for other stones like aquamarine or fluorite.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinctive blue-green color and relative softness (it can be scratched by a steel knife but not a penny). Commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, and Myanmar. For collectors, look for the 'neon' saturation and glassy luster.
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![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral
Epidote
Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
mineral