Where is Apatite found?
Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)
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Open the appApatite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Apatite
Russia (Kola Peninsula)
Known for large deposits of apatite, particularly in the Khibiny and Lovozero massifs, associated with alkaline igneous rocks.
Brazil (Minas Gerais)
Produces fine gem-quality apatite crystals, often in vibrant colors, from pegmatites and metamorphic rocks.
Canada (Ontario, Quebec)
Historically significant apatite mining regions, particularly for fluorapatite, found in metamorphic and igneous rocks.
United States (Florida, Idaho, Tennessee)
Major sources of sedimentary phosphorite deposits, which are primarily composed of cryptocrystalline apatite (collophane).
Mexico (Durango)
Known for producing excellent, often large, green and yellow apatite crystals from pegmatites.
Myanmar (Mogok)
Source of gem-quality apatite, often associated with ruby and sapphire deposits.
Collecting tips
- Check for Hexagonal Crystals. Apatite often forms distinctive hexagonal prismatic crystals, which can be a good indicator in the field.
- Test Hardness. With a Mohs hardness of 5, apatite can be scratched by a steel file (hardness ~6.5) but will scratch glass (hardness ~5.5). This helps distinguish it from harder minerals like quartz or softer ones like calcite.
- Look for Associated Minerals. In igneous and metamorphic environments, apatite is often found with feldspar, quartz, mica, hornblende, and calcite. In sedimentary phosphorites, it's typically massive and associated with chert, clay, and organic matter.
- Consider Color Variation. Due to its wide range of colors, don't rule out apatite based on color alone. Look for other diagnostic features.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Variable (green, blue, yellow, brown, pink, purple, colorless, white, gray, black)
- Luster:
- Vitreous to sub-resinous
- Streak:
- White
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