mineral

Fluorite (tumbled pebble)

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale green/purple (multi-colored); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.18

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale green/purple (multi-colored)
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale green/purple (multi-colored); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.18

Formation & geological history

Hydrothermal mineral formation occurring in veins within host rocks (often limestone); typically forms as a late-stage mineral in cooling hydrothermal fluids.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux for smelting steel, manufacturing hydrofluoric acid, high-performance telescope lenses, jewelry/lapidary work, and crystal healing.

Geological facts

Fluorite is naturally thermoluminescent and fluorescent under UV light. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world' due to the wide range of impurities that change its color.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 4-way cleavage and relative softness (can be scratched by a steel knife but not a copper coin). Commonly found in China, Mexico, and Illinois (USA).