If you’re wondering what kind of rock is fluorite then here is the answer! It belongs to the halide minerals, which are characterized by their high solubility in water and ability to form with metals to produce compounds. Fluorite is used as an industrial flux, with applications including steelmaking, ore refining, purifying gold and silver ores (by absorbing other metals), polishing glasses and teeth.
What kind of rock is fluorite?
Fluorite is a mineral. Minerals are inorganic substances that form through natural processes. Fluorite can be found in many different colors, including blue, green, purple, yellow, and pink. It’s one of the most common minerals on Earth and can be found in many different parts of the world.
Fluorite is often found alongside quartz, feldspar, mica, and pyrite. It forms as hexagonal crystals or as cubes (this crystal structure is known as “isometric”). Fluorite is quite soft (it has a Mohs hardness of four) and can break or scratch easily, so it’s important to be careful with this mineral. Fluorite often forms as cubes because its crystals are made up of different planes which all meet at 90° angles.
Properties of Fluorite
- Fluorite is a mineral that belongs to the halide group.
- It is used as an industrial flux in various applications, including steelmaking and ore refining.
- Fluorite can be found in many different colors, including blue, green, purple, yellow, and pink.
- Its crystals are usually made up of different planes that all meet at 90° angles.
- Fluorite is quite soft, with a Mohs hardness of four. It can break or scratch easily.
- It often forms as cubes because of its crystal structure.
Uses of Fluorite
Fluorite is used as an industrial flux in many different applications, including steelmaking and ore refining. It’s also been known to absorb other metals from ores when it forms with them (this process is called “fluorescence”). Some common uses of fluorite include:
- Toothpaste – this mineral can help freshen breath and strengthen teeth.
- Purifying gold and silver ores – when fluorite is added to ore, it absorbs other metals from the mixture (fluorescence).
- Polishing glassware or gems for ornamental purposes.
- Manufacturing high-grade steel that doesn’t require further polishing/cleaning before use.
Lapidary work
Fluorite is often used in lapidary work because it can be easily cut and polished to create beautiful gemstones. This mineral has perfect cleavage so cutting and polishing this stone requires great care, but the results are well worth it! Fluorite cabochons (gems that have been rounded on one side and flat on the other) make beautiful pendants and earrings because of their brilliant colors. When fluorite is polished, it can take a very high gloss finish which makes this mineral perfect for ornamental use in jewelry pieces.
How to care for your fluorites stones
Since fluorite is a soft mineral, it’s important to take care of it properly. Here are a few tips for keeping your fluorites stones looking their best:
- Store your fluorites in a fabric pouch or jewelry box when you’re not wearing them.
- Do not expose fluorites to harsh chemicals or heat (including direct sunlight).
- Clean your fluorites stones with a soft cloth and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning pads, as these can damage the mineral’s surface.
- If you’re going to use fluorite in jewelry, make sure it is set in a durable metal like gold or silver. Placing fluorite in contact with other softer materials can damage it.
- Always remove your fluorites before exercising, cleaning, doing dishes by hand, etc., to avoid damaging or scratching the stones.
Interesting facts
- Fluorite is the official mineral of Illinois.
- The world’s largest fluorite crystal was found in Cave in Rock, Illinois, and weighed 365 pounds!
- In Ancient Rome, it was believed that eating fluorite would improve one’s intelligence.
- Some people believe that fluorite can be used to increase psychic abilities and connect with the spiritual realm.
- The element fluorine was named after this mineral.
- Fluorite is found in many different places around the world, including China, Mexico, Africa, and Europe.
Final thoughts
Fluorite is a very useful mineral for many purposes. From jewelry to industrial use, fluorite can be used in so many ways and has been around since the 1800s! If you’re looking to work with this material, try using it as a lapidary stone. The results will always amaze people who see them and make everyone wonder how you did it all on your own!
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