mineral

Green Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to translucent emerald; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.175–3.184.

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale green to translucent emerald
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily through hydrothermal activity in veins, often as a gangue mineral associated with metallic ores. It can also be found in sedimentary rocks like limestone or in pegmatites. Geological age varies widely from Paleozoic to Cenozoic eras.

Uses & applications

Extensively used as a flux in smelting and steel production. High-grade specimens are used for decorative carvings, jewelry (though soft), and specialized optical lenses for microscopes and telescopes due to low dispersion.

Geological facts

Fluorite is famous for being the mineral that gave its name to the phenomenon of fluorescence. It can glow under ultraviolet light. It is also the main source of fluorine for hydrofluoric acid and fluorinated water.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct four-directional cleavage, 4.0 hardness (scratched by a pocket knife but not a copper penny), and cubic crystal habits. Commonly found in locations like Illinois (USA), China, Mexico, and South Africa.