mineral

Green Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep green; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.18

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale to deep green
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified May 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep green; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.18

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal activity, often in veins alongside metallic ores like lead and zinc. It precipitates from hot, mineral-rich fluids circulating through fractures in the Earth's crust.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making (smelting), in the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, in high-performance optical lenses, and as a popular semi-precious stone for jewelry and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Fluorite is one of the most famous fluorescent minerals; the term 'fluorescence' was actually derived from fluorite. It can appear in almost every color of the rainbow and is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world.'

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its softness (can be scratched by a knife but not a copper penny) and its perfect four-way cleavage. Commonly found in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the USA (notably Illinois).