What is Fluorite?

Fluorite is a member of the Halide mineral family. It’s a crystal that can be found in hydrothermal rocks as a Gangue mineral or in fractures of Limestones and Dolomites. At its purist form, fluorite is clear, but they can contain metallic ores that include sulfides of silver, lead, zinc and copper. Other components which can be found are trace amounts of yttrium, europium and samarium in the form of substitutes for calcium in the mineral’s structure. If these elements are present then the crystal emits fluorescence or a blue-violet glow under UV lights.

Fluorite is a fluoride mineral. It has a 4 on the Mohs scale of hardness which points out to the fact that it can be scratched if it comes in contact with other harder crystals. The fracture type is most often subconchoidal to uneven. 

Fluorite’s name was inspired by the Latin verb “fluere”. In translation it means “to flow” which resembles the fact that this crystal was usually used as a flux to decrease viscosity of slag in iron smelting.

Fluorite Formations

Fluorite, a mesmerizing gemstone cherished for its striking colors and intriguing optical properties, exhibits a diverse range of formations that captivate the imagination. One of the most common formations is the cubic form, where fluorite crystals manifest in perfect cubes with smooth, flat faces. These cubic formations can occur as individual crystals or as clusters, showcasing a symphony of vibrant hues. Another fascinating formation is the octahedral form, characterized by eight faces that converge to form a diamond-like shape. Octahedral fluorite crystals often display a translucent to transparent appearance, allowing light to dance within their captivating depths.  Typically the small ones of these happen when a larger piece is broken up, they actually break off into this shape.

Additionally, fluorite can form in the shape of dodecahedrons, which have twelve faces, each with a pentagonal shape. These intricate formations highlight the geometric elegance of fluorite, captivating the eye with their intricate patterns and captivating color variations. From cubic clusters to octahedral gems, each formation of fluorite holds its own unique allure, adding to the enchantment of this extraordinary gemstone. 

Where is fluorite found?

Mexico is one of the primary sources, with notable mining regions in states like Durango, Chihuahua, and Coahuila, where breathtaking specimens with hues ranging from purple and blue to green and yellow are discovered. South Africa also boasts significant fluorite deposits in areas such as Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, revealing stunning variations in color and formation. France, Russia, China, and the United States, like Illinois fluorite, Tennesse, and Utah fluorite just as examples. are other notable locations where fluorite is found. These countries offer diverse fluorite specimens with their own distinctive characteristics, including delicate bands of colors, exceptional transparency, and captivating ranges of colors and patterns. From the intense purples of Mexican fluorite to the transparent beauty of Chinese fluorite, the global presence of this gem showcases its enduring allure and makes it a cherished treasure for collectors and crystal enthusiasts worldwide.

What does fluorite look like?

Fluorite, also known as Rainbow Fluorite is a beautiful vibrantly colored crystal usually found in purple and green colors. Although the most common colors are purple and green, there can also be pink, blue, or yellow within the stone. Fluorite is easily identified by these colors and the fantastic banding (stripes) that pattern throughout its polished formation. However, Fluorite may not show obvious signs of banding when in its rough form, and the coloring may not be as vibrant. In addition to the widely recognized Rainbow Fluorite, fluorite grows in cluster formations around the world.  These can be very cubic, structures, octahedrons, or more of a round formation.

If banding is not present, you can identify Fluorite by its ”phosphorescence,” hardness, opacity, shape, and physical feel. “Phosphorescence” is a glowing that occurs after shining a UV light on the stone. While many fluorite crystals will glow under UV light, not every one does. (read more about UV crystals on my blog post) Fluorite ranges from transparent to opaque, and they have a cubic crystal structure meaning that the crystal will usually be cube-shaped or have cubed nodules. Fluorite is glassy and may have a chalky look when not yet tumbled and polished.

Fluorite gets its phosphorescence from trace minerals like yttrium, europium, and samarium. Fluorite is allochromatic, which means that the impurities of other elements can easily tint it. This crystal is naturally clear and transparent, but because of how easily it can be tinted my other minerals, it is uncommon to find these stones in their naturally clear form.

Fluorite can often grow with quartz and even a few other kinds of crystals.

Fluorite Properties

Fluorite is mostly used for detoxifying energies especially negative and stagnant ones. It can also help those that have problems with excessive worries and anxiety. With these benefits you can reach mental clarity and peace of mind easily! The different colors of the crystal can also bring varying effects depending on the chakra they connect to. The green Fluorite can be used for dealing with heartbreak because it’s associated with the Heart Chakra, the purple varieties relate with the upper chakras and increase intuition and the blue ones connect to the Throat Chakra which can serve you with better communication skills.

Purple fluorite helps enhance the mind and decision making. It is also calming and helps you connect to your higher-self.  Yellow fluorite specifically helps you overcome feelings of shame.

There’s more or less a color of fluorite for any situation you are facing in your everyday life!

Fluorite is said to have many healing abilities and can enhance energetic protection and balance your body’s energy and reduce stress, promote self-confidence, stimulate the intellect and help give you better judgment.  Fluorite is a harmonizing and grounding stone.

Crystals That Work Well With Fluorite

Fluorite, known for its protective and stabilizing properties, harmonizes well with several crystals, amplifying their energies and creating a synergistic effect. Amethyst, a crystal of spiritual insight and intuition, combines with fluorite to enhance psychic abilities and promote spiritual growth. Clear quartz, a powerful amplifier, intensifies the properties of fluorite, creating a stronger protective shield and facilitating mental clarity. Selenite, with its purifying and cleansing energy, works in harmony with fluorite to release negative energy and promote emotional healing. Finally, labradorites, stones of transformation and magic, complements fluorite  by enhancing its metaphysical properties and expanding its aura of protection. Together, these crystals create a powerful and supportive energy field, helping to enhance focus, intuition, and overall well-being.

What is fluorite used for?

Fluorite will bring you its beautiful energies if you use as beautiful jewelry for everyday wear or in the form of tumbled stones which are usually carried in pockets. It’s also an amazing addition to your home if you are needing some colorful décor and positive ambiance. According to Feng Shui you can place purple Fluorite towers or spheres in the south of your house if you’re looking for some recognition or green Fluorite in the bedroom if you want to bring more intimacy in your love life. This is also a birthstone for Capricorn which makes it a must have in their collections!  

More about Fluorite

Because of Fluorite’s ability to protect one’s energy, it is often placed around the house for feng shui.

Fluorite is a soft stone that is a 4 on the Mohs hardness scale and is easily scratched by metal and glass.

Chakra: Third Eye

Fluorite Localities: The United States, China, United Kingdom, Mexico, Brazil, Russia, Namibia, Madagascar and more.