mineral

Tumbled fluorite (probable)

Fluorite, calcium fluoride (CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent pale green, blue, and honey-brown material with a vitreous luster and visible internal zoning; fluorite has Mohs hardness 4, cubic crystals, perfect octahedral cleavage, and specific gravity about 3.18. The rounded surface indicates tumbling or polishing.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in hydrothermal veins and carbonate-hosted deposits when fluorine-rich fluids precipitate calcium fluoride, commonly alongside quartz, calcite, and barite. The specimen’s exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as a flux in steel and aluminum production and as a source of fluorine; attractive banded pieces are sold as decorative or collectible specimens. It is occasionally cut into cabochons, though its softness limits jewelry durability.

Geological facts

Color zoning is common and may result from trace rare-earth elements or radiation-related defects. Fluorite’s octahedral cleavage makes it prone to chipping despite its glassy appearance.

Field identification & locations

Identify by green-to-purple or honey zoning, glassy translucence, relatively low hardness, and octahedral cleavage; confirm with a hardness test and, ideally, specific gravity. Common sources include China, Mexico, England, Illinois, and Spain.