Fluorite: For Sight and Delight

Used as a key component for steel, acid, and lenses, fluorite is a mineral that, although it is soft, can still be used in jewelry. While it is not often seen in jewelry pieces, fluorite has been used in ornamental carvings. Fluorite occurs in a delightful array of colors.

Fluorite has been discovered in many parts of the world, including England, Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Norway, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Peru, Thailand, South Africa, Canada, and the United States. Blue John fluorite, a popular purple/blue banded variety, was mined at Castleton in Derbyshire, England. However, that supply has reportedly been depleted.

To some, fluorite is referred to as being the world’s most colorful mineral in addition to quartz. Fluorite is translucent or transparent and occurs in colors such as purple, green, blue, yellow, red/orange, brown, black, and colorless. Green and purple are the most common colors, while deep purple is one of the most popular because it rivals an amethyst’s color. It is quite common to see more than one color on an individual stone. These multi-colored stones are referred to as rainbow fluorite. Fluorite is sometimes heated or irradiated to improve its appearance and color. When placed under ultraviolet light rays, fluorite appears fluorescent. In fact, that effect is how the word “fluorescent” was derived.

Fluorite is a soft stone and is only rated 4.0 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Because of its soft disposition, it is not often found in jewelry. However, if you do own fluorite jewelry, such as a pendant or ring, there are several important things to know. Scratching, chemicals, sudden temperature changes, steaming, or ultrasonic cleaners should all be avoided.

In addition to its uses in jewelry, fluorite is important to the steel industry as it is used as a flux. The preparation of hydrofluoric acid also requires the use of fluorite. Colorless fluorite crystals are key components in the creation of prisms and lenses. Fluorite, for those with an artistic flare, can also be used in ornamental carvings or vases. The Chinese, as well as the ancient Egyptians, created many beautiful carvings out of fluorite.

Fluor, fluor spar, and fluorospar are other names for fluorite. Metaphysically, it has also been called the Genius Stone because it has been said to aid in making decisions and concentrating. Those who believe in metaphysical aspects of stones also have said that fluorite is something that should be kept in every room of a home to eliminate negative energy.

With its many uses, it is easy to see why fluorite has so many admirers. Helping to create lenses that aid in sight and prisms that reflect colors varying and bright, fluorite is a gemstone of many colors that should have you glowing with delight.

Return to Sparkling Splendor home page