Fluorite
Fluorite · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Collector Mineral / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); crystals are often cubes or octahedrons. This specimen is in tumble-polished 'chip' or 'nugget' form.
Mineral Group
Halides
Chemical Formula
CaF2 (Calcium Fluoride) with trace elements like Yttrium or Cerium often affecting color
Formation Process
Primarily Hydrothermal, forming as a gangue mineral in veins alongside metallic ores, or through volcanic activity in pegmatites and carbonate rocks.
About This Crystal
A string of tumbled, irregular chips showing a multi-colored range from pale green and clear to deep purple and blue. The material is transparent to translucent with a vitreous (glass-like) luster and smooth polished surfaces.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Multi-colored (Rainbow Fluorite); Streak: White; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral (4 directions); Specific Gravity: 3.18; Fluorescence: Strong blue to violet under UV light.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.434 (Singly Refractive/Isotropic); Dispersion: 0.007 (Very low fire); generally lacks pleochroism due to its isometric structure.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found worldwide with major deposits in China, Mexico, South Africa, and the USA (Illinois, Kentucky); often occurs in hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 4. Very soft and brittle; prone to scratching and fracturing. Poor wearability for rings, best suited for low-impact jewelry like necklaces.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam. Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Store separately to avoid scratches from harder stones like quartz. Sensitive to heat and prolonged sunlight.
Rarity & Value
Common and affordable. Value is determined by color intensity and zoning. Often untreated, though occasionally coated or heat-treated to modify color.
Special Characteristics
Displays distinctive color zoning (banding) and intense fluorescence. Named for the phenomenon of fluorescence itself.
Lore & History
Historically used by Ancient Egyptians for statues and the Romans for ornate drinking cups (Murrhine vases). In modern lore, it is known as the 'Genius Stone,' associated with mental clarity, focus, and the heart/third-eye chakras.