Fluorite
Fluorite (Calcium Fluoride) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); this specimen is hand-carved into a figurine (typical natural habit includes cubes and octahedrons)
Mineral Group
Halides
Chemical Formula
CaF2 (Calcium Fluoride), often with trace Rare Earth Elements (REE) substituted into the lattice
Formation Process
Hydrothermal mineral formation occurring in vein deposits alongside metallic ores, or as a secondary mineral in carbonate rocks
About This Crystal
Transparent to translucent carved figurine showing a mix of pale green and purple color zoning. It exhibits a vitreous (glassy) luster with internal fractures and cloud-like inclusions typical of massive fluorite.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Zoned purple and green; Streak: White; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral (four directions); Specific Gravity: 3.18; Fluorescence: Strongly fluorescent under UV light
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.434 (low); Singly refractive (Isotropic); commonly exhibits strong blue or violet fluorescence; lacks pleochroism
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Major sources include China, Mexico, South Africa, and the United Kingdom; typically found in hydrothermal veins and carbonatites
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 4; brittle tenacity; low durability makes it easily scratched by jewelry metals or quartz dust; prone to cleavage chips
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and acids; store separately to prevent scratching; may fade in prolonged direct sunlight
Rarity & Value
Common mineral; value for this specimen is determined by carving quality and color saturation rather than weight; very affordable and widely traded
Special Characteristics
Distinctive color-banding (color zoning) and intense fluorescence from which the term 'fluorescence' was actually derived
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient Romans for cups (Murrhine) and by Egyptians for statues. In modern folklore, it is associated with mental clarity, focus, and the heart/third eye chakras.