Apatite
Apatite is a group name for phosphate minerals and is a gemstone easily mistaken for others due to its diverse range of colors. Derived from the Greek word "apate," meaning "to deceive or cheat," it has lived up to its name by frequently being misidentified as various other gemstones such as chrysoberyl or tourmaline.
Apatite with its diverse color palette
Basic Information
| English Name | Apatite |
|---|---|
| Japanese Name | Rinkaiseki |
| Chemical Formula | Ca5[(F,OH,Cl)(PO4)3] |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Hardness | 5 |
| Specific Gravity | Approx. 3.2 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
Characteristics and Varieties
- Fluorapatite: The most commonly traded type of apatite.
- Chlorapatite: A chlorine-bearing apatite that is less commonly found.
- Hydroxyapatite: A hydroxyl-bearing apatite, which is the main component of human bones and teeth.
- Apatite Cat's Eye: Exhibits chatoyancy due to tubular inclusions, resembling chrysoberyl cat's eye.
Origin, Aliases, Treatments, and Similar Stones
Representative Origins: Canada, Madagascar, Mexico, Brazil.
Aliases: Canadian Emerald, Paraiba Apatite, Mexican Topaz.
Treatments: Resin impregnation, heat treatment (heating pale grayish-yellow stones to produce a purple color).
Similar Stones: Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye, Paraiba Tourmaline, Beryl, Tourmaline, Sapphire, Aquamarine, Scapolite.
Caution: With a relatively low hardness of 5, careful handling is required; for instance, avoid using ultrasonic cleaners for more than 5 minutes.