mineral

Fluorite (Rainbow Fluorite)

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, green, clear (multi-colored); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Isometric (often cubic or octahedral in raw form); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.175–3.184.

Hardness: 4 on Mohs scale
Color: Purple, green, clear (multi-colored)
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in hydrothermal veins often associated with lead and zinc ores, or in limestone and dolomite through metasomatic replacement. Occurs across many geological eras from Precambrian to Tertiary.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as a flux in steelmaking (fluorspar), in the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, and for high-precision optical lenses. Polished specimens are highly popular for lapidary art, jewelry, and metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Fluorite is the origin of the term 'fluorescence' because many specimens glow under ultraviolet light. It is often called 'the most colorful mineral in the world' due to the wide variety of trace impurities that cause its vibrant banding.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its softness (can be scratched by a knife but not a copper penny) and its distinct octahedral cleavage. Major deposits are found in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the Illinois-Kentucky district in the USA.