mineral

Fluorite (Green Fluorite)

Fluorite (Calcium Fluoride, CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: typically green as shown, but can be purple, yellow, or clear; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic or octahedral); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.175 to 3.184.

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified March 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary carbonate rocks. It occurs globally in geological settings ranging from Precambrian to recent times, often associated with metallic ores like lead and silver.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in steel making, into hydrofluoric acid for chemical industries, and in the manufacture of high-clarity lenses for telescopes and cameras. Also popular in jewelry (cabochons) and as a decorative mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Fluorite is famously known for its fluorescence under ultraviolet light; the term 'fluorescence' was actually derived from this mineral. It is often referred to as 'the most colorful mineral in the world' due to the massive variety of hues it can exhibit.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct cubic or octahedral cleavage planes and its ability to be scratched by a steel knife but not a copper penny. Commonly found in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the Illinois-Kentucky district in the USA.

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