Fluorite Beads

Fluorite beads are made of calcium fluoride. In addition to its use in jewelry making, fluorite is also used as flux in metal smelting and as a source of fluorine for hydrofluoric acid and fluorinated water. The name is derived from the Latin "fluere" which means to flow due to its use as flux. The term "fluorescent" was derived from fluorite, since specimens of fluorite were some of the first fluorescent minerals ever studied. Organic petroleum compounds in the mineral cause the fluorescence.

Significant sources of fluorite are China, Germany, England, Italy, Switzerland, Norway, Brazil, Canada, United States, Russia, and Mexico. It is the Illinois state mineral, due to it being an important mineral in limestone deposits in the Southern part of the state.

Fluorite varies from transparent to opaque in clear, purple, red, pink, yellow, green, blue, and sometimes black. It is strongly color banded, rather soft and brittle. However gemstone beads of fluorite have a place among other jewelry supplies, due to their subtle and beautiful coloration. In jewelry making, fluorite gemstone beads make an especially nice partner to pearls.

Fluorite is a birthstone for February. Crystal healers consider fluorite one of nature’s most powerful mental healers. It is thought to increase internal and external awareness, and has been labeled the "genius stone." Be sure to include this beautiful mineral in your jewelry supplies.

common treatments: none

special care: protect from impact and strong chemicals

hardness: 4