Scientific

Fluorite is an important industrial mineral composed of calcium and fluorine (CaF2). It is used in a wide variety of chemical, metallurgical, and ceramic processes. Fluorite is deposited in veins by hydrothermal processes. In these rocks it often occurs as a gangue mineral associated with metallic ores. Fluorite is also found in the fractures and cavities of some limestones and dolomites. It is a quite common rock forming mineral found in many parts of the world. In the mining industry, fluorite is often called "fluorspar."  It is the only mineral with 4 directions of perfect cleavage which often lead to octahedron specimens.  Because of its hydrothermal depositional environment, small changes in water chemistry can result in different impurities being encompassed in the crystal lattice resulting in layers of different colors.  In many cases the chemistry is consistent resulting in consistently hued fluorite, and in other areas the fluorite can range from clear to greens to pink to blue to dark purple and are quite striking.

Uses

Specimens with exceptional diaphaneity and color can be cut gems or used to make ornamental objects.  Fluorite is a soft mineral with excellent cleavage and does not wear well when cut into gems.  Much of the multicolored fluorite is therefore cut into ornamental objects.

Fluorspar, the name used for fluorite when it is sold as a bulk material or in processed form, is sold in three different grades (acid, ceramic, and metallurgical).

Acid grade fluorspar is a high-purity material used by the chemical industry. It contains over 97% CaF2. Most of the fluorspar consumed in the United States is acid grade even if it is used in lower grade applications. It is used mainly in the chemical industry to manufacture hydrofluoric acid (HF). The HF is then used to manufacture a variety of products which include fluorocarbon chemicals, foam blowing agents, refrigerants, and a variety of fluoride chemicals.  Including uses in the dental office to harden tooth enamel.

Ceramic grade fluorspar contains between 85% and 96% CaF2. Much of this material is used in the manufacture of specialty glass, ceramics, and enamelware. Fluorspar is used to make glazes and surface treatments that produce hard glossy surfaces, opalescent surfaces, and several other appearances that make consumer glass objects more attractive or more durable. The non-stick cooking surface known as Teflon is made using fluorine derived from fluorite.

Metallurgical grade fluorspar contains between 60 and 85% CaF2. Much of this material is used in the production of iron, steel, and other metals. Fluorspar can serve as a flux that removes impurities such as sulfur and phosphorous from molten metal and improves the fluidity of slag. Between 20 and 60 pounds of fluorspar is used for every ton of metal produced. In the United States many metal producers use fluorspar that exceeds metallurgical grade.

Meaning

Fluorite is considered an intellectual stone and is known as the “Genius Stone” as it increases concentration and focus boosting the absorption of new information and helping you work through complex issues. It is considered an excellent healing stone balancing the energy around you and your environment.  Purple fluorite stimulates the third eye chakra as it boosts psychic communication and improves spiritual balance.