mineral

Polished blue-green fluorite sphere

Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically purple, blue, green, or banded with vitreous luster; Mohs hardness 4, cubic crystal structure, perfect octahedral cleavage, and specific gravity about 3.18. The visible pale veining and green-purple zoning are consistent with fluorite, though the photograph cannot exclude calcite or dyed material.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

Explore Polished blue-green fluorite sphere in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in hydrothermal veins and cavities associated with limestone, dolostone, and igneous rocks; deposits range from ancient Precambrian to younger Phanerozoic ages. Common sources include China, Mexico, Mongolia, England, and the United States.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel and aluminum production, a source of hydrofluoric acid, and an ornamental or lapidary material. Spheres are primarily decorative and collectible.

Geological facts

Fluorite often fluoresces blue, purple, or green under ultraviolet light; the name derives from its use as a metallurgical flux. It can be scratched by a steel knife more readily than quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by low hardness, cubic cleavage, vivid zoning, and possible UV fluorescence; a refractometer, hardness test, and fluorescence test help distinguish it from quartz or calcite. Avoid acids and impacts because cleavage makes it fragile.