mineral

Purple fluorite crystal

Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically purple with vitreous luster and cubic crystal structure; perfect octahedral cleavage, Mohs hardness 4, and specific gravity about 3.18. The specimen appears to be a small, partly translucent purple cubic crystal.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in hydrothermal veins and cavities associated with limestone, dolostone, and metal-bearing deposits. Most specimens are geologically young on Earth’s timescale, commonly associated with Paleozoic–Mesozoic mineralizing events.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as a flux in steel and aluminum production and as a source of fluorine; transparent, vividly colored crystals are collected and occasionally cut as gemstones.

Geological facts

Purple coloration commonly results from irradiation-related color centers and trace impurities. Fluorite is a major source mineral for hydrofluoric acid and fluoresces strongly under some ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its purple color, cubic form, glassy luster, softness, and distinctive octahedral cleavage; it is easily scratched by a steel knife. Common localities include China, Mexico, England, Illinois, Colorado, and New Mexico.