mineral

Yellow Fluorite

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, yellow to golden-brown color, vitreous luster, isometric (cubic) crystal system, perfect octahedral cleavage, and a specific gravity of around 3.18.

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, yellow to golden-brown color, vitreous luster, isometric (cubic) crystal system, perfect octahedral cleavage, and a specific gravity of around 3.18.

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in hydrothermal veins and carbonate rocks, precipitating from mineral-rich solutions at varying temperatures.

Uses & applications

Used in metallurgy as a flux, in the manufacturing of certain types of glass and enamel, and highly sought after by mineral collectors and lapidary artists.

Geological facts

Fluorite gives the phenomenon of 'fluorescence' its name, as many specimens glow strongly under ultraviolet light due to trace impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its relatively low hardness (can be scratched with a knife), cubic crystal habit, and perfect octahedral cleavage. Common localities include China, Mexico, South Africa, and the UK.