Fluorite
Image: Zopilote0 (CC BY 2.0)
Mineral NameFluorite
Chemical FormulaCaF2
Mohs Hardness4
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect octahedral
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity3.18
Colorsgreen, white, colorless, dark speckles
Transparencytransparent to translucent
Type LocalityWorldwide, common in many mining districts
Mineral GroupHalides
Usesmetallurgical flux, hydrofluoric acid production, optical lenses, jewelry, collector specimens
Associated Mineralsquartz, calcite, barite, galena
Raritycommon
Description
A specimen of green fluorite, exhibiting well-formed cubic or octahedral crystals with a vitreous luster, partially covered by a druzy layer of smaller, sparkling crystals and dark mineral inclusions.
Geological Context
Fluorite commonly forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with metallic ores, and can also be found in sedimentary rocks, pegmatites, and carbonatites.
