mineral

Polished fluorite tower

Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale green, translucent material with cloudy zoning and a glassy-to-waxy luster; likely Mohs hardness 4, cubic crystal structure, and perfect octahedral cleavage. The elongated shape is cut and polished, with some natural cleavage or polishing irregularities at the base.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Fluorite forms mainly in hydrothermal veins and carbonate-hosted deposits, commonly alongside quartz, calcite, galena, and barite. Individual specimens may range from geologically young to hundreds of millions of years old; the image alone cannot determine age or locality.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel and aluminum production, a source of hydrofluoric acid, and as an ornamental or lapidary material. Collectible value depends strongly on transparency, color, zoning, polish, and provenance.

Geological facts

Green fluorite commonly owes its color to trace impurities or radiation-related defects. It can fluoresce strongly under ultraviolet light, often blue, purple, or green.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its relatively soft surface, cubic cleavage, translucent zoning, and distinctive octahedral breakage; avoid scratching or ultrasonic cleaning. Common sources include China, Mexico, England, Illinois, and Colorado.