Fluorites’ unique combination of dazzling crystal habits makes it a very popular stone among mineral collectors. Roman historian Pliny the Elder named fluorite his "most precious substance"  and many would agree with him. Fluorite is considered to be the second most popular mineral, only second to quartz. One of the interesting properties displayed by fluorite is the perfect octahedral cleavage, i.e., it has four identical directions of cleavage, which, when cleaved correctly, produces a perfect octahedral or diamond shape. Gemstones that are cleaved octahedrons are highly sought after by crystal shops all over the world.

The name fluorite originates from the use of fluorite as a flux to lower the melting point in steel and aluminum processing. Miners originally referred to it as fluorspar and it is also used as a source of fluorine for hydrofluoric acid and fluorinated water. In fact, the element fluorine gets its name from fluorite . Fluorite is a well-formed, clean crystal famous for its industrial applications, healing properties, and its availability in a wide range of colors. Our buying guide will tell you everything you need to know about fluorite.

What is fluorite?

Fluorite is part of the Spar family and is formed as a result of hydrothermal solutions that rise rapidly. When water comes in contact with melted minerals like calcium and fluorine, permatites, faults, and fissures are formed. Each fluorite is unique to its area of origin, making it an interesting choice for jewelry. Depending on the subtle variations in the area, such as radiation, each stone has its own specific imperfections unique to that region.

An interesting property that fluorite specimens exhibit under ultraviolet light is fluorescence. They emit visible light in various colors; most commonly blue, but red, purple, yellow, green, and white also occur due to the presence of impurities like yttrium or organic matter in the crystal lattice. The color of visible light emitted is a property dependent on where the specimen originated. Fluorite was one of the first fluorescent minerals ever studied. 

Where is fluorite found?

Fluorite deposits have been found throughout the world, making it a very common mineral. Classic and exceptional localities include England, France, Spain, Switzerland, Russia, South Africa, Canada, and the USA. Each location produces fluorite, which has properties that are unique to that particular area. For example, green cubic crystals have come from the famous Rogerly Mine in England, and these crystals uniquely exhibit daylight fluorescence, changing to a saturated blue color in sunlight.

Other examples include the bright blue fluorite crystals from several areas in France, and pink octahedrons highly valued by collectors, found in the Alps near the Argentiere Glacier. Brilliant deep-green fluorites were recently discovered in Riemvasmaak, Northern Cape Province, South Africa.

Similar and Related Variants of Fluorite:

1. Blue John: This variety of fluorite has white and purple or yellow and purple bands. It is usually found in England.
2. Chlorophane: A variant of fluorite that exhibits green thermoluminescence. It was first found in Siberia, Russia.
3. Yttrocerite: This isometric reddish-blue crystal gets its name from its chemical composition, which contains yttrium and cerium.
4. Yttrofluorite: This variety of fluorite contains an appreciable amount of trivalent yttrium in place of divalent calcium cations present in fluorite.
5. Antozonite: In this variety of fluorite, the fluorine ions are uncombined and when fractured or cleaved, a peculiar odor is released.

The Three C’s of Fluorite:

Color:

Fluorite is known for its occurrence in colors ranging from colorless to black. Fluorite is usually found in purple color and other popular colors include blue, green, and yellow. Colorless, pink, brown, and reddish-orange are the rarer color variants. Fluorite is usually a single color, but a considerable percentage of fluorite has been found that shows multiple colors in the form of bands or zones. This occurs due to the presence of various trace elements.

Clarity:

Fluorite possesses a naturally attractive vitreous luster that can be heightened when it is polished or faceted. Gem-quality specimens and the highest quality fluorite is free from inclusions visible to the naked eye. Fluorite that is deemed gem grade typically occurs with excellent transparency. Lower-grade, industrial and commercial-use fluorite is translucent.

Cut:

Fluorite gemstones are often cut from deeply colored stones. Fluorite that has been faceted as a gemstone is usually only for collectors or display purposes. Common shapes that fluorite is cut into include traditional ovals, rounds, and cushions. Fluorite that is multicolored and banded fluorite is typically shaped and polished as cabochons. Fluorite stones that are unworked are collected and traded as crystals. Since fluorite has a tendency to chip, it can be a notoriously tough gemstone to cut into the desired shape.

Treatments of Fluorite:

Fluorite sold in the market is more often than not unenhanced. Very few materials may have undergone enhancement in the form of irradiation gamma rays to create interesting neon-like colors. These synthetic varieties of fluorite are not very common in the market.

How to take care of fluorite?

Fluorite is a soft gemstone and ranks a low 4 on the Mohs scale, meaning it is a rather fragile gemstone compared to most gemstones. It is considerably softer than quartz and even simply wiping dust off its surface can cause them to gradually lose their shine and develop surface scratches. Fluorite stones should be taken care of like precious opal. When taking part in any physically tasking activities such as sports, avoid wearing fluorite jewelry.

Fluorite should be cleaned with soapy water and a soft cloth; it should be rinsed well after each cleaning to remove any soapy residue. Similar to other colored stones, ultrasonic cleaners and steamers should not be used for cleaning unless absolutely necessary. Using bleach and other harsh chemicals can damage the gemstone. If your fluorite comes in contact with chemicals and detergents like hairspray, cosmetics, or perfumes, it should be wiped clean immediately.

Wrapping fluorite in a soft cloth, or placing it into a fabric-lined box is the safest way to store fluorite stones. Its distinct cleavage, due to the crystal structure of its composition and a brittle tenacity makes it prone to damage, scratches, fractures, and chips. Proper care is the only way to make fluorite jewelry last a long time.

Fluorite Meaning:

Fluorite crystal gets its meaning from one of its distinctive properties. The fluorescent light that features different colors when exposed to UV rays is a feature of fluorite. It is an ideal stone for students who want to promote peacefulness and clear their focus. It is a must-have for situations in which you need to concentrate. The meaning of this stone can be utilized as a power source that amplifies the power of everything in its surroundings, including other gemstones. These properties make it a common feature among healing layouts.

Mythology:

• Since fluorite is a lesser-known gemstone, it hasn’t gained much fame or legend, other than being declared as the most colorful mineral in the world.
• The word 'fluorite' is derived from the Latin verb that means 'to flow' and refers to fluorite's use as a flux in steel and aluminum processing.
• Originally called 'fluorspar' by miners and is still referred to as fluorspar by some communities to this day.
• It is believed that fluorite has a calming effect on the body, during the 18th century it was grounded into powder form and mixed with water to treat kidney disease.
• Ancient Romans believed that drinking alcohol out of vessels carved from fluorite would decrease the effect of alcohol.

What is fluorite used for?

• Fluorite is used as a source of fluorine for fluorinated water.
• Since fluorite is not a very hard gemstone, it is not ideal for all types of jewelry, but it can be used in earrings, pendants, and brooches.
• Fluorite is sometimes used instead of glass in high-performance telescopes and camera lens elements.

Fluorite metaphysical properties:

• Fluorite is considered to be a very protective crystal on a psychic level. It has benefits similar to that of using Howlite.
• It will help you identify any external forces that are trying to control or mislead you. This gemstone is believed to effectively ward any form of mental or psychic manipulation.
• Hostile or opposing forces that surround you can be fought off by fluorite.
• Negative energies that threaten your personal relationships can be distanced by regularly keeping this stone near you.
• Any electromagnetic fog that can attract or make it harder to fend off negative energies and make you feel psychically, emotionally, or mentally lethargic can be distanced using this gemstone.
• It is believed to purify the user’s body and get rid of anything that comes in the way of it functioning perfectly.

Healing Properties:

• Fluorite occurrence with other common minerals like quartz and calcite makes it the ideal healing tool for its overall cleansing and purifying effects.
• The green and purple color variants give it incredible synergistic energy that can heal and rejuvenate the aura of the user.
• The green variant cleanses and purifies the heart chakra by aligning the mind and the true desires of the heart. It is believed to be the perfect solution for a case of existential burnout.
• The purple colors in the fluorite crystal stone are believed to help one find their divine purpose in life and stimulate the third eye chakra, making way for spiritual expansion.
• Sitting quietly with fluorite and calling on its gentle healing powers can help you coordinate your physical and mental abilities.

Where should you buy Fluorite gemstones?

At GemsforJewels, we offer fluorite gemstone of the highest quality. These stones can be bought loose, as cabochons and strands; there are umpteen varieties for you to choose from. We also boast a range of different shapes to pick from, including tubes, heart, cube, and rectangle, and 7 other appealing shapes. Fluorite is an attractive and renowned gemstone known and loved all around the world.