mineral

Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Neon blue to teal; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.16-3.22

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale
Color: Neon blue to teal
Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous

Identified May 3, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Neon blue to teal; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.16-3.22

Formation & geological history

Found in various geological environments including igneous pegmatites, metamorphic rocks like marble, and sedimentary phosphate deposits. Often forms as accessory minerals in igneous rocks during cooling.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a major source of phosphorus for fertilizers; also used as a gemstone (though soft) and for mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Apatite is the mineral used as the defining standard for 5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. The name is derived from the Greek word 'apate', which means 'to deceive', because it was often confused with other minerals like tourmaline or beryl.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic blue color, hexagonal crystal habit, and its ability to be scratched by a knife but not by a copper penny. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Mexico.