mineral

Raw Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale. Color: Green, purple, or blue-green. Luster: Vitreous/Glassy. Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Perfect octahedral. Transparency: Translucent to transparent.

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Color: Green, purple, or blue-green
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale. Color: Green, purple, or blue-green. Luster: Vitreous/Glassy. Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Perfect octahedral. Transparency: Translucent to transparent.

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ores like lead and silver. It can also occur in sedimentary rocks such as limestones or as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks like granite.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, as high-end optical lenses, and as a popular ornamental stone for carvings and jewelry.

Geological facts

Fluorite is famous for its fluorescence under ultraviolet light; the term 'fluorescence' was actually derived from the name of this mineral. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world.'

Field identification & locations

Identify by its relatively low hardness (can be scratched by a knife but not a copper penny) and its distinct cubic crystal habits or octahedral cleavage fragments. Found globally in places like China, Mexico, and the USA (Illinois/Kentucky).