Fluorite

Found all over the world, this common and pretty pastel mineral typically occurs in vein deposits. The name fluorite comes from the Latin fluo, which means "flow" in reference to its use as a flux. A flux is a substance that promotes the flow and combination of other materials, and fluorite is often used in making steel and other metals that require the removal of impurities.

Another interesting aspect of the gemstone is its fluorescence in ultraviolet light. In fact, the word "fluorescent" is derived from fluorite.

Mohs Hardness: 4.0