Fluorite
Fluorite · Mineral Specimen and Semi-Precious Stone
Crystal System
Cubic; typically forms cubic, octahedral, or massive crystal habits with perfect octahedral cleavage.
Mineral Group
Halides
Chemical Formula
CaF2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal processes, crystallizing from mineral-rich fluids in rock cavities and veins at low to moderate temperatures.
About This Crystal
The specimen exhibits a soft sea-green to bluish-green color, translucent transparency, a vitreous luster, and an irregular, naturally fractured or roughly tumbled massive form.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from green, blue, purple, yellow, to colorless; white streak; perfect octahedral cleavage in four directions; conchoidal to uneven fracture; specific gravity of approximately 3.18; brittle tenacity; highly famous for strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive with an isotropic optical character; refractive index of roughly 1.434; weak to no dispersion.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally with major deposits in China, Mexico, South Africa, the UK, and the USA; forms in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary environments.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 4, making it relatively soft and easily scratched; poor toughness due to perfect cleavage, requiring careful handling in jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, harsh chemicals, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fading, and scratching by harder stones.
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon depending on color and crystal clarity; value ranges from inexpensive for rough massive specimens to moderate for sharp multi-colored crystal clusters; generally untreated.
Special Characteristics
Remarkable fluorescence under both shortwave and longwave ultraviolet light, often glowing vibrant blue or violet; also exhibits thermoluminescence and triboluminescence.
Lore & History
Historically used for carving ornamental vases and objects since ancient times; in metaphysical traditions, it is considered the 'Genius Stone' associated with mental clarity, focus, and the alignment of the chakras (particularly the heart and third eye).