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Fluorapatite

A species of Apatite Group, Also known as Chlor-Fluorapatite, Crisolito de España, Hydroxyl-Fluorapatite, Nauruite, Voelckerite

Fluorapatite is the most common member of the Apatite group. Aside from mines around the world, this mineral also occurs in human teeth that are exposed to fluoride (e.g. through toothpaste). Though colorless when pure, crystals are often formed with minor impurities that give them a wide range of colors. Some particularly attractive or deeply-colored specimens may be sought after by collectors. On the industrial side of things, fluorapatite is sometimes mined as a source of phosphorus.

Hardness:

Density:

3.18 g/cm³

General Info About Fluorapatite

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Physical Properties of Fluorapatite

Luster

Greasy, Vitreous, Resinous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous

Diaphaneity

Transparent to opaque

Colors

Colourless to white when pure, also green, blue, pink, yellow, brown, violet, purple

Magnetism

Non-magnetic

Tenacity

Brittle

Cleavage

Indistinct

Fracture

Conchoidal, Uneven

Streak

White

Crystal System

Hexagonal

Hardness

5 , Soft

Density

3.18 g/cm³, Normal Weight

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Chemical Properties of Fluorapatite

Chemical Classification

Phosphates

Idealised Formula

Ca₂Ca₃(PO₄)₃F

Formula

Ca₅(PO₄)₃F

Elements listed

Ca, F, O, P

Common Impurities

OH, Cl, TR, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, Y, Er, Mn

Optical Properties of Fluorapatite

Pleochroism

Weak to strong

Optical Character

Uniaxial negative

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Rarity

Uncommon

Characteristics of Fluorapatite

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Formation of Fluorapatite

Fluorapatite as a mineral is the most common phosphate mineral. It occurs widely as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks and in calcium rich metamorphic rocks. It commonly occurs as a detrital or diagenic mineral in sedimentary rocks and is an essential component of phosphorite ore deposits. It occurs as a residual mineral in lateritic soils.

Cultural Significance of Fluorapatite

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Uses of Fluorapatite

Fluorapatite is commonly used to prevent tooth decay, and it is utilized in toothpaste and other dental products. It also occurs in a variety of colors ranging from green to blue, and sometimes occurs in shades of yellow or may be entirely colorless, making it a popular and very versatile gemstone.