Main places of production of purple fluorites
1. China
China is one of the largest producers of fluorite in the world, and it is known for yielding some of the most stunning purple fluorite specimens. The Yiwu Mine in Zhejiang Province, as well as locations in Hunan and Inner Mongolia, are famous for producing rich, deep purple fluorite with large, well-formed cubic crystals. The Chinese fluorite often displays incredible transparency, making it highly sought after by collectors. Specimens from these mines often show striking color zoning, with alternating bands of lighter and darker purple.
2. England – Rogerley Mine
The Rogerley Mine in Durham County, England, is renowned for its vibrant green and purple fluorite specimens. While the mine primarily produces green fluorite, it is known to yield exceptional purple fluorite as well. Rogerley fluorite is unique in that it can exhibit fluorescence under UV light, shifting from deep purple to bright blue. The cubic crystals from this mine are often sharp, and the purple color is highly saturated, making them some of the most prized fluorite specimens globally.
3. USA – Illinois and Kentucky
The United States, specifically Illinois and Kentucky, has historically been a major source of fluorite, particularly from the famous Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District. While mining activity in this area has decreased over the years, the district once produced world-class purple fluorite specimens, often with cubic or octahedral forms. The Cave-in-Rock mining area in Illinois was especially famous for producing some of the purest, deepest purple fluorite, with transparent and flawless crystal structures.
Though no longer a major source of fluorite, specimens from these mines are still highly valued by collectors for their historical significance and beauty.
4. Mexico – Naica Mine
Mexico is another important source of purple fluorite, with the Naica Mine in Chihuahua being one of the most famous fluorite-producing locations in the world. Naica fluorite often features deep purple crystals, sometimes associated with other minerals such as quartz and galena, adding to their visual appeal. The Naica Mine, famous for its giant selenite crystals, also produces fluorite specimens with excellent clarity and color contrast. The crystals from this region are often larger and more lustrous, making them highly desirable.
5. Spain – Asturias Region
Spain, particularly the Asturias Region, is well-known for producing beautifully colored purple fluorite. The Berbes Mine is the most famous source, where specimens are known for their brilliant color, sharp cubic formations, and exceptional luster. Spanish fluorite often has a distinctive deep purple hue with good transparency. The crystals are usually smaller but form in complex, well-defined cubic clusters, making them a favorite among European collectors.
Conclusion
Purple fluorite is mined in various parts of the world, with each location offering specimens that are unique in color, form, and clarity. Whether from the rich deposits of China or the historic mines of the United States, these specimens continue to captivate collectors with their beauty and geological significance. Each region produces a variety of colors and crystal shapes, making purple fluorite a fascinating and diverse mineral to explore.