mineral

Green Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale); Color: Light to mint green; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific gravity: 3.175 to 3.56.

Hardness: 4 (Mohs scale)
Color: Light to mint green
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified January 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal activity where hot, fluorine-rich fluids circulate through host rocks like limestone or granite, often found in veins alongside lead or silver ores. It can form in various geological ages but is common in Paleozoic to Mesozoic deposit sites.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as a flux for smelting steel and aluminum, in the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, and for high-clarity optical lenses. In its polished form, it is highly valued as a gemstone and for use in decorative carvings and metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Fluorite exhibits the phenomenon of fluorescence, where it glows under ultraviolet light; in fact, the term 'fluorescence' was named after this mineral in 1852. Its wide range of colors is due to trace impurities or radiation damage in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its softness (can be scratched by a steel knife but not a copper coin) and its four-directional cleavage. Common locations include China, Mexico, South Africa, and the Illinois-Kentucky fluorspar district in the USA. Collectors should handle it with care due to its low hardness.