Rock Identifier
Tumbled dark blue-green stone, likely blue apatite or indigo gabbro (Apatite, Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH), or possibly quartz-rich indigo gabbro) — mineral
mineral

Tumbled dark blue-green stone, likely blue apatite or indigo gabbro

Apatite, Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH), or possibly quartz-rich indigo gabbro

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Polished/tumbled, dark blue-green to gray with reflective granular patches; likely Mohs 5 (apatite) or 6–7 if gabbro/quartz-bearing. Vitreous to subvitreous luster; exact cleavage, crystal structure, and specific gravity require testing.

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Physical properties

Polished/tumbled, dark blue-green to gray with reflective granular patches; likely Mohs 5 (apatite) or 6–7 if gabbro/quartz-bearing. Vitreous to subvitreous luster; exact cleavage, crystal structure, and specific gravity require testing.

Formation & geological history

If apatite, it crystallized in igneous or metamorphic rocks during geologic time, commonly in granitic pegmatites; if gabbro, it formed by slow cooling of mafic magma. The photograph alone cannot establish age or locality.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a lapidary or collector stone; apatite may be used as a phosphate source, while gabbro is used as crushed stone or dimension stone. This specimen appears tumbled rather than jewelry-grade faceted material.

Geological facts

The intense dark color and metallic-looking inclusions are not diagnostic and may reflect surface polish, inclusions, or a coating. A streak, hardness, specific-gravity, and magnification test would substantially improve identification.

Field identification & locations

Check whether it scratches glass (about Mohs 5.5), examine grain boundaries under magnification, and test streak on unglazed porcelain; avoid destructive tests until coating is excluded. Blue apatite commonly occurs in Brazil, Madagascar, Mexico, and Canada.