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Apatite: Mineral Information

Links To Apatite Information Topics On This Page:
Apatite Products in our VIRTUAL GALLERY
Apatite Physical Properties
Apatite Background Info
Apatite Geologic Occurance and Diagnostic Features
Apatite History and Uses
Apatite Metaphysical Properties

APATITE PRODUCTS IN OUR VIRTUAL GALLERY:
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• Apatite in Jasper Mineral Specimens
• Apatite Mineral Specimens
• Blue Apatite Spheres
• Blue Apatite in Jasper Spheres
• Blue Apatite in Jasper Gems
• Blue Apatite in Jasper Lapidary Rough
• Spectacular Blue Apatite in Jasper Decorator and Collector Items
• Apatite Jewelry

APATITE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

• Apatite Chemical composition: Ca₅(PO₄)₃(F,Cl,OH)
• Class: phosphate
• Crystal system: hexagonal; 6/m
• Crystal habit: commonly as prismatic crystals terminated by first order pyramids often with basal planes. Also can be in massive granular to compact masses.
• Twinning: twins are rare
• Specific gravity: 3.15 - 3.20
• Index of refraction: 1.63 - 1.64
• Birefringence: weak to moderate (0.001-0.015)
• Pleochroism: weak to moderate
• Hardness: 5
• Color: usually in shades of yellow, green or brown, more rarely colorless, violet or blue.
• Luster: vitreous to sub-resinous, occaisionally a chatoyant effect is visible.
• Transparency: transparent to opaque
• Cleavage:poor on {0001}
• Fracture: uneven, brittle
• Streak: white to yellow-gray

APATITE BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Apatite is the name given to a group of three related minerals the most common of which is fluorapatite(Ca₅(PO₄)₃F), and more rarely clorapatite(Ca₅(PO₄)₃Cl) and hydroxylapatite(Ca₅(PO₄)₃OH). A complete solid solution series exists between these three with F, Cl and OH substituting for each other. Also, (CO₃,OH) may substitute for (PO₄) resulting in carbonate-apatite.

The name Collophane has been used for the massive cryptocrystalline apatite that makes up most phosphate rocks and fossil bones.

APATITE GEOLOGIC OCCURRENCE And DIAGNOSTIC FEATURES

Apatite (Ca₅(PO₄)₃(F,Cl,OH)) is a common accessory mineral in many types of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. The largest apatite deposits are associated with alkalic rocks. The phosphates in bones and teeth are members of the apatite group.

The color in apatite is often due to the presence of rare earth elements or by natural irradiation.

Apatite is characterized by its hardness, crystal habit and color.

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APATITE HISTORICAL INFORMATION AND USES

The name apatite is from the Greek word to deceive because the gem varieties were often confused with other minerals.

Previously apatite was used as a source of phosphate for fertilizer, but today mainly phosphorites are used. Apatites of fine color and transparency are occaisionally used as gemstones, however the relatively low hardness of apatite limits its use as a gem, making it suitable only for use as gemstones in earrings, brooches and pendants. The use of apatite gems as ringstones requires extra care to prevent abrasion and loss of polish.

The astrological sign of apatite is Gemini.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Apatite is said to enhance one's insight, learning abilities and creativity, and to give increased self-confidence. It also is said to help achieve deeper states of meditation. Using apatite is said to facilitate the desired results when working with other minerals.

Apatite is said to be usefull to help improve one's coordination and to strengthen muscles, and to help suppress hunger and ease hypertension.

For more in-depth metaphysical information, see our Metaphysical Books section.

This is the end of our Apatite Factsheet and Information page.