Fluorite
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Mineral NameFluorite
Chemical FormulaCaF2
Mohs Hardness4
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavagePerfect octahedral in four directions
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity3.18
Colorsbrownish-yellow, amber, reddish-brown
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityElmwood Mine, Carthage, Smith County, Tennessee, USA
Mineral GroupHalides
Usesflux in steelmaking, hydrofluoric acid production, optical lenses, jewelry, collector specimens
Associated Mineralscalcite, quartz, barite, galena, sphalerite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features a cluster of intergrown, translucent, brownish-yellow to amber cubic fluorite crystals, some exhibiting reddish-brown surface staining. The crystals display distinct, flat faces characteristic of their cubic habit and cleavage.
Geological Context
Fluorite commonly forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ore deposits, and can also be found in sedimentary rocks like limestones and dolomites. Its formation is typically at lower temperatures.
