mineral
Purple Fluorite Octahedron
Fluorite (Calcium Fluoride, CaF2)
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple/Violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic (cleaved into octahedrons); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.175-3.184.
- Hardness
- 4 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Purple/Violet
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
Identified More mineral →
Explore Purple Fluorite Octahedron in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple/Violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic (cleaved into octahedrons); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.175-3.184.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, often associated with lead and zinc ores in limestone or as an accessory mineral in granites and pegmatites. These octahedron shapes are often created by masterfully cleaving larger cubes along their natural crystal planes.
Uses & applications
Used as a flux in steel making, in the manufacture of opalescent glass, as enamels for cooking utensils, and highly valued as a collectible mineral or decorative gemstone.
Geological facts
Fluorite was named the official state mineral of Illinois in 1965. It is known as 'the most colorful mineral in the world' and the word 'fluorescence' is derived from it because many specimens glow under UV light.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its distinct 4-directional cleavage and its inability to scratch glass but its ability to be scratched by a knife. Common locations include China, Mexico, and the Hardin County area in Illinois, USA.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous