Apatite Vs. Fluorite

Apatite is a popular mineral group composed of a group of phosphates.^[1] Fluorite is a very popular gemstone and its chemical composition is calcium fluoride.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Apatite and Fluorite

For a quick recap of the differences apatite and fluorite:

• While both apatite and fluorite can be translucent or transparent, fluorite can be opaque.
• For chemical formulas, apatite can be Ca5(PO4)3(F, Cl or OH) while fluorite is CaF2.
• While both apatite and fluorite can be commonly red, fluorite is often green or yellow.
• Apatite's hardness is higher than fluorite - apatite is 5 and fluorite is 4 on the Moh's scale.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Apatite and Fluorite

The similarities of apatite and fluorite include:

• In terms of luster, apatite and fluorite both are vitreous.
• Apatite and fluorite both streak white.
• Apatite's rarity is similar to fluorite.

Summary of Apatite

Apatite is a mineral that is commonly found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is made up of calcium phosphate, which is the same mineral that makes up our teeth and bones. Apatite can be identified by its green, blue, or yellow color, and its hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. It can also be identified by its crystal structure, which is hexagonal.

Summary of Fluorite

Fluorite, also known as fluorspar, is a mineral that is commonly found in a variety of colors including purple, green, blue, yellow, and clear. It is easily recognizable due to its distinctive cubic crystal structure, which is often associated with a stepped or layered appearance. Fluorite is a relatively soft mineral, with a hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, and it has a specific gravity of approximately 3.0.

Table Comparison of Apatite vs Fluorite