Chemical Compostion
Flourite (also called Flourspar) is the mineral form of Calcium Flouride CaF2.
History
In 1852, Flourite gave its name to the phenomenon of fluorescence (the emission of UV light). The history and etymology of this particular gem is very intriguing. The word Flourite is derived from the Latin word fluere, meaning to flow. And this mineral was used as flux in iron smelting, the Latin adjective fluxus means flowing.
Color
It is a very popular mineral that occurs in almost all colors of the spectrum. Although, pure Flourite is colourless, the color variations are caused by multiple impurities. Some colors are very deep and intense, including purple, blue, red, pink, orange, yellow, brown, green, grey and black. Often seen as multicoloured and banded.
Multi-colored fluorite
Treatment
Sometimes the color is caused by multiple treatments like heating and irradiation. Some dealers may apply oil treatment on amateur Flourite specimens to enhance luster.
Belief
The green Flourite is a birthstone for people born in the heart of the spring between April 20 and May 20. Whereas Blue Flourite is a birthstone for people born from February 19 to March 19.
Occurences
Some of the world’s most prized Flourite specimens come from Swiss and French Alp deposits where the crystals occur as simple octahedrons (the rough form), and range in color from a delicate pink to a rich red. It is also found in China, Mexico, South Africa, Mongolia, France, Russia and North America.
Natural octahedron form in rough fluorite
Fluorite Collector
Weighing 6 tons and standing 5 feet tall is the world’s biggest Flourite unearthed in China.
Due to flourite’s very low hardness and toughness, it cannot be used as a mainstream gemstone or in accessories, however it is generally cut and carved for specialty collectors.
Uses
Gem quality fluorite are used in fine & fashion jewelry. Good clarity fluorite are used in lenses like microscope,cameras, telescopes. Also used with metal, ceramics, and chemical industries.
Healing properties
Fluorite is believed to Improve confidence, positive thinking, good for enhancing learning ability.
Simulants
Jade, Quartz, Emerald, Tourmaline
