Minerva Illinois Fluorite

Minerva Illinois Fluorite Minerva #1 Mine fluorite from Illinois is known for its vibrant colors, zoning, and fluorescence. It often exhibits a combination of yellow and purple hues, with some pieces displaying transparent, gemmy interiors and others having a black petroleum coating that enhances the stepped crystal growth. Many specimens fluoresce under ultraviolet light, with the most intense response being a deep blue under long wave UV. Here’s a more detailed look at its properties: Color: Zoning: Many Minerva fluorites are zoned, meaning they display different colors in layers or bands within the crystal. Common Colors: Yellow and purple are the most common colors, with some pieces also exhibiting blue, green, and colorless variations. Gem Yellow: Gem yellow fluorite from Minerva is considered rare. Purple Halos: Purple fluorite can sometimes exhibit colored halos around radioactive inclusions, according to UFRGS. Fluorescence: Long Wave UV: Minerva fluorite often exhibits a strong blue fluorescence under long wave ultraviolet light, notes NaturesRainbows. Short Wave UV: Some pieces also fluoresce yellow under short wave UV, says iRocks.com. Other Notable Features: Zoned Phantoms: Some specimens display zoned phantoms, where the color variations within the crystal are visible as distinct shapes or patterns, reports iRocks.com. Hydrocarbon Inclusions: The presence of hydrocarbons can affect the color and morphology of the fluorite, sometimes creating a black petroleum coating, says Mindat.org. Baryte and Calcite: Minerva fluorite is sometimes associated with baryte (white) and calcite, which can add to the specimen’s beauty and aesthetic appeal, notes iRocks.com. Crystal Habit: The fluorite crystals from Minerva are typically cubic, but can also exhibit hoppered or etched morphologies.