mineral

Purple fluorite cluster with metallic sulfide inclusions

Fluorite, calcium fluoride (CaF₂), likely with pyrite or chalcopyrite inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 4, vitreous luster, cubic crystal structure, and perfect octahedral cleavage; purple zoning is common. The specimen shows translucent purple cubic/blocky crystals with brassy metallic inclusions, though the exact sulfide cannot be confirmed from the image.

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Purple fluorite cluster with metallic sulfide inclusions
Scientific name: Fluorite, calcium fluoride (CaF₂), likely with pyrite or chalcopyrite inclusions
Category: mineral
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $20–$100 for a common hand specimen; $100–$500+ for larger, well-formed, vividly colored clusters with attractive metallic inclusions.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Fluorite forms hydrothermally in veins and cavities associated with limestone, dolostone, and igneous rocks, commonly during relatively low-temperature mineralization. It occurs in many geological ages; locality and age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as a flux in steel and aluminum production, and as a source of fluorine; attractive clusters are collected and occasionally used decoratively. It is generally not used as jewelry because of its softness and cleavage.

Geological facts

Purple color commonly results from radiation-related color centers or trace elements. Fluorite’s cubic habit and strong cleavage distinguish it from similarly colored quartz and amethyst.

Field identification & locations

Look for cubic faces, glassy luster, softness, and easy cleavage; a steel knife may scratch it, while quartz will not. Major localities include China, Mexico, England, Namibia, Morocco, and the United States.