mineral

Purple fluorite crystal cluster

Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Likely cubic fluorite crystals with purple zoning, vitreous luster, and perfect octahedral cleavage; Mohs hardness 4 and specific gravity about 3.18. The image suggests a translucent to transparent purple cluster, though identification from a photograph is provisional.

Identified August 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in hydrothermal veins and cavities, commonly with quartz, calcite, galena, or barite; specimens range from many geological ages depending on the deposit. Common sources include China, Mexico, England, Spain, Morocco, and the United States.

Uses & applications

Collected as a mineral specimen and occasionally cut as a gemstone; industrial fluorite is the main source of fluorine for hydrofluoric acid, aluminum processing, and specialty glass. Its softness and cleavage limit everyday jewelry durability.

Geological facts

Purple color commonly results from radiation-related defects or trace impurities, and fluorite may show strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light. Cubic crystal faces and stepped cleavage fragments are characteristic.

Field identification & locations

Check for cubic geometry, octahedral cleavage, glassy luster, and hardness below steel; acid testing is unnecessary. Comparable clusters typically sell for $20-$150, while exceptionally large, sharp, vividly zoned specimens may exceed $300.