Fluorite
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:G.dallorto" title="User:G.dallorto">Giovanni Dall'Orto</a> (CC BY-SA 2.5 it)
Mineral NameFluorite
Chemical FormulaCaF2
Mohs Hardness4
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavagePerfect octahedral in four directions
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity3.18
Colorsblue, white, gold
Transparencytransparent to translucent
Type LocalityWorldwide, with notable localities including Illinois (USA), Weardale (England), Naica (Mexico), and Huanggang (China).
Mineral GroupHalides
Usesflux in steelmaking, hydrofluoric acid production, optical lenses, jewelry, collector's specimens
Associated Mineralspyrite, quartz
Raritycommon
Description
This image displays a cluster of vibrant blue fluorite crystals, predominantly cubic in habit, with some showing stepped growth. They are associated with a matrix of white, crystalline material and scattered tiny golden specks of pyrite.
Geological Context
Fluorite typically forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ores, and can also be found in granites, pegmatites, and sedimentary rocks.
