What's That Rock?Fluorite
A colorful calcium fluoride mineral that forms cubes and octahedra. Many specimens glow under UV light.
How to identify Fluorite
- Soft: scratches with a knife
- Splits into octahedron-shaped pieces along flat planes
- Cubes in many colors, sometimes with color bands
Often confused with
Real or fake?
- Colors in dyed pieces collect in cracks; real fluorite shows color zoning inside
Is Fluorite valuable?
Inexpensive to moderate.
Typical retail prices
Tumbled stone$2–6each
Rough$15–60per pound
Collector specimen$15–200each
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Color: vivid purple, green or rainbow-banded crystals cost more than pale ones
- Crystal form: sharp, glossy cubes or octahedrons with no damage are prized
- Origin: English (Weardale) and Chinese specimens are well known
- Glow: strong UV fluorescence adds interest but little price
- Fragile: it cleaves easily, so unbroken pieces matter
Uses
- Steel and chemical industry, optics
- Carvings and display pieces
Care
Soft and easy to scratch. Keep away from strong sunlight and heat which can fade color.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026