Fluorite

Fluorite is a very popular gemstone composed of calcium fluoride. ^[1]

Fluorite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Fluorite:

• Transparency: Fluorite can be opaque, translucent or transparent.
• Luster: In terms of luster, fluorite is vitreous (glassy).
• Streak: Fluorite streaks white.
• Hardness: Fluorite's hardness is 4 on the Moh's scale.
• Specific Gravity: Fluorite's specific gravity ranges from 3 to 3.18.

Fluorite: Background and Summary

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.

Fluorite is a widely used mineral with various applications in industry, medicine, and jewelry. One of the most common uses of fluorite is in the production of hydrofluoric acid, which is used to make a variety of products including fluorocarbons, refrigerants, and aluminum. Fluorite is also used in the production of cement, as a flux in steelmaking, and in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics. In the jewelry industry, fluorite is often used as a gemstone due to its unique colors and patterns.

To identify fluorite, look for its distinctive cubic crystal structure and its layered or stepped appearance. Fluorite is also relatively soft compared to other minerals, which means that it can be easily scratched with a fingernail or a penny. When held up to a light source, fluorite will often exhibit fluorescence, which is a glowing effect that is caused by the absorption and reemission of light.