Apatite

Apatite is actually three different minerals depending on the predominance of either fluorine, chlorine or the hydroxyl group. These ions can freely substitute in the crystal lattice and all three are usually present in every specimen although some specimens have been close to 100% in one or the other. The rather non-inventive names of these minerals are Fluorapatite, Chlorapatite and Hydroxylapatite. The three are usually considered together due to the difficulty in distinguishing them in hand samples using ordinary methods.

The irony of the name apatite is that apatite is the mineral that makes up the teeth in all vertebrate animals as well as their bones. The name apatite comes from a Greek word meaning to decieve in allusion to its similarity to other more valuable minerals such as olivine, peridot and beryl.

Apatite is widely distributed in all rock types; igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic, but is usually just small disseminated grains or cryptocrystalline fragments. Large well formed crystals though can be found in certain contact metamorphic rocks. Very gemmy crystals of apatite can be cut as gems but the softness of apatite prevents wide distribution or acceptance of apatite as a gemstone.


SCIENTIFIC DATA

Mineral Class: Phosphates, Arenates, Vanadates

Mineral Species: Apatite

Composition: Ca₅(PO₄)₃(F,Cl,OH) - Calcium Fluorine-Chlorine-Hydroxyl Phosphate

Hardness: 5

Specific Gravity: 3.16-3.22

Cleavage: Perfect

Fracture: Conchoidal, uneven, brittle

Color: Typically green but also yellow, blue, reddish brown and purple

Streak: White

Luster: Greasy, vitreous

Transparency: Transparent to opaque

Crystal System: Hexagonal

Sources: Russia, Sweden, Mexico, South Africa, Maine, Canada

Apatite is the most important phosphate fertilizer.


METAPHYSICAL DATA

Chakras: Third eye, base

Number: 9

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Element: Wind

Beneficial for: Motivation; nervous exhaustion; irritability; humanitarian attitude; apathy; service; communication; energy depletion; pain; bones; cells; calcium absorption; cartilage; bone; teeth; motor skills; arthritis; joint problems; rickets; appetite suppression; metabolic rate; glands; meridians; organs; hypertension

The name Apatite is derived from the Greek apate, meaning "deceit," because it can be confused with gems such as Peridot and Beryl. The interface between consciouness and matter, Apatite is a stone of manifestation attuned to the future, yet connects to past lives. Developing metaphysical abilities and spiritual attunement, it deepens meditation and raises kundalini. Releasing energy in the base chakra, Apatite clears frustration and supports passion without guilt. It balances the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual bodies. Promoting a humanitarian attitude, this stone aids communication and induces openness and social ease, dissolving aloofness and alienation. It draws off negativity about oneself and others and is helpful for hyperactive and autistic children.