mineral

Tumbled fluorite

Fluorite (calcium fluoride, CaF₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale green, translucent, and waxy-to-glassy with cloudy internal zoning and possible cleavage surfaces. Mohs hardness 4; cubic crystal system, perfect octahedral cleavage, and specific gravity about 3.18.

Identified September 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in hydrothermal veins and cavities, commonly with quartz, calcite, and sulfide minerals. Its age depends on the deposit; the rounded surface indicates human tumbling and polishing.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel and aluminum production, in hydrofluoric-acid manufacture, and occasionally as a decorative or lapidary stone. This small tumbled piece has modest collector value.

Geological facts

Fluorite commonly occurs in purple, green, yellow, blue, and colorless bands; green varieties may resemble low-grade jade or calcite. It fluoresces strongly under some ultraviolet wavelengths, especially when activated by impurities.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include China, Mexico, Illinois and Kentucky, the United Kingdom, and South Africa. Identification is supported by softness, cubic cleavage, relatively high density, and UV fluorescence; avoid scratching it with steel if surface preservation matters.