Fluorite (Rainbow Fluorite)
Fluorite (IMA-approved: Fluorite) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); this specimen is cut into a hexagonal prismatic obelisk/wand, but naturally occurs in cubes or octahedrons; it exhibits perfect octahedral {111} cleavage.
Mineral Group
Halides
Chemical Formula
CaF2 (Calcium Fluoride), with rare earth elements (REE) like Yttrium or Cerium often replacing Calcium to cause color zoning
Formation Process
Hydrothermal; it precipitates from hot, mineral-rich fluids as they cool in veins, often associated with lead and silver ores, or in limestone cavities.
About This Crystal
A polished hexagonal wand showing distinct color zoning with bands of deep purple, translucent lavender, and milky white/clear sections. It has a vitreous (glassy) luster and internal fractures characteristic of its cleavage planes.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Multicolored zoning (purple, white); Streak: White; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Fracture: Subconchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 3.175–3.184; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: Strong blue-violet under longwave UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.432–1.448 (isometrically isotropic); Birefringence: None (singly refractive); Dispersion: Very low (0.007); no pleochroism due to cubic symmetry.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Major sources include China (Hunan Province), Mexico, Brazil, and the USA (Illinois/Kentucky). Forms in hydrothermal veins and carbonatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 4 (Reference mineral for 4); Toughness: Low (very fragile due to perfect cleavage). Not recommended for rings; best for decorative display or pendants.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic/steam cleaners; use only lukewarm soapy water. Sensitive to heat and acids (especially sulfuric). Store separately from harder stones and avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Rarity & Value
Common; value is determined by color saturation, clarity, and zoning patterns. Wands are generally affordable ($10-$50). Treatments like irradiation or oiling are possible but uncommon for this grade.
Special Characteristics
Strongly fluorescent; its name is the root of the term 'fluorescence.' Some specimens show thermoluminescence or phosphorescence. This specimen shows distinct 'phantoms' or rhythmic growth bands.
Lore & History
Used since ancient Rome (Murrhine cups) and by Egyptians for carvings. In traditional lore, it is called the 'Genius Stone,' associated with mental clarity, concentration, and the Third Eye/Crown Chakras.