Fluorite
Fluorite is a colorful mineral that often exhibits multiple colors in a single specimen. It's the defining mineral for 4 on the Mohs hardness scale.
Fluorite properties at a glance
| Type | Minerals |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | CaF2 |
| Mohs hardness | 4 |
| Crystal system | cubic |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | Perfect octahedral |
| Fracture | Flat |
| Specific gravity | 3.2 |
| Transparency | transparent |
| Common colors | Purple, Green, Blue, Yellow, Colorless, Pink |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with lead and zinc ore deposits.
Ancient Egyptians carved fluorite into statues and scarabs; Chinese have used it for over 300 years.
How to identify Fluorite
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Fluorite examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Where Fluorite is found
Fluorite is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Fluorite worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $25 |
| Premium specimen | $200+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Industrial flux
- Optics
- Collector specimens
- Jewelry
Interesting facts
- The word 'fluorescent' comes from fluorite
- Some specimens glow under UV light
- Used as a flux in steel and aluminum production
Care & safety
Treat Fluorite as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
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