Information!
For good reason, Fluorite is loved by many people since this crystal comes in so many colors and shapes. In 1530 a naturalist and geology researcher, Georgius Agricola, mentioned Fluorite in his work. While researching ores and melting temperatures, he came across a material that helped certain ores melt at a lower temperature. Because this material helped to make the melted ores flow, Fluorite was derived from the word Fluo/Fleure which is Latin for ‘to flow’. Fluorite is used as a flux for smelting and in the production of certain glasses and enamels. Today we know this material as fluorspar, Fluorite and calcium fluoride. The term fluorescent comes from George Gabriel Stokes in 1852 when he observed Fluorite fluoresce. His findings led to him coining the term fluorescence and creating research and findings that other scientists would find useful.
Geology facts!
Fluorite or CaF2 is a halide mineral and is made of calcium fluoride. It falls at a 4 on the MOHS hardness scale. Fluorite forms in igneous rocks typically through hydrothermal activity. This mineral can commonly be found in granite and limestone deposits. Fluorite has a cubic crystal system which means that it forms in perfect cubes. Depending on the locality of where it grows, Fluorite coloring and quality can change. Fluorite is naturally colorless but it gets shades of green, purple, blue, yellow and pink through different mineral inclusions. Including mineral impurities, Fluorite can get its color by irradiation or heating through the Earth’s natural process.
More interesting information!
Fluorite can be found all over the world including Canada, China, England, Germany, Mexico, Russia, Spain and the United States. Some popular places to collect beautiful Fluorite from are England, China and Mexico. Under ultraviolet UV light, Fluorite often fluoresces. This can range from just glowing under the light to being UV reactive and emitting a strong, bright color and light. The fluorescence phenomenon is thought to be due to impurities such as yttrium or other types of organic matter.
Metaphysical properties!
Fluorite is an amazing stone for boosting concentration, memory and clarity. This is an amazing stone when needing help in decision making and self-confidence. Along with this, Fluorite absorbs negative energy and stress and neutralizes the aura. Promoting peace, stability and calmness is also something that you can expect from Fluorite. If you’re looking for learning or study help, Fluorite is an amazing stone to have on your desk, in your workspace or worn as daily jewelry.
Fun facts!
- If left out in sunlight for prolonged periods of time, Fluorite can fade and lose its color.
- Blue is the rarest and most sought after color of Fluorite.
- Pure Fluorite is colorless.
- Some types of Fluorite can be color-changing and heavily UV reactive.