How did apatite form?
The most important deposits of apatite are in sedimentary rocks formed in marine and lacustrine environments. There, phosphatic organic debris (such as bones, teeth, scales, and fecal material) had accumulated and was mineralized during diagenesis.
Where is apatite found in nature?
Major sources for gem apatite are Brazil, Myanmar, and Mexico. Other sources include Canada, Czech Republic, Germany, India, Madagascar, Mozambique, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, and the United States.
When was apatite found?
Apatite Discovery Apatite was not used extensively in the ancient world with only a few beads and amulets discovered over the years from archaeological digs in the Middle-East and in Africa but its modern history began in 1786 when it was studied and named by German geologist, Gottlob Werner.
Who discovered apatite?
geologist Abraham Gottlob Werner
The mineral apatite was first recognized by German geologist Abraham Gottlob Werner (1950–1817) and named in 1786 from Greek word “ apatao ” (απα’ταω, which means to mislead, to cheat, or to deceive because the mineral was often mistaken for other species, e.g. mineral beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18, space group P6/MCC)) [43],[44 …
Is apatite rare or common?
Apatite are rare, beautiful, blue gemstones from Brazil and Madagascar. Apatite is a hugely popular gemstone that comes in almost every shade of blue, from cool neon through to bright indigo and vivid royal blues.
What is apatite worth?
The rarest of all varieties, a rich purple from Maine, tops the list at $250 per carat. The degree of polish can vary on this soft stone due to skill levels of individual cutters, giving well polished stones premium value. As with most gems, saturation of color, size, and clarity are the major determiners of value.
Why is apatite so expensive?
Apatite is a naturally occurring gemstone, largely unknown to the general public but prized by collectors for its many different colors and forms. The cost of the stone increases with the intensity of the color. The best apatite is neon greenish blue with a clean clarity.
What color apatite is most valuable?
Apatite occurs in a rainbow of colors. However, the intense neon-blue to blue-green colors are the most sought after due to their rarity. The intense saturation on the stone calls for a positive impact on the value of the Apatite stone.
Can you wear apatite everyday?
However, as apatite is very soft, it can be difficult to fashion and cut making it a challenging stone to work with. Apatite is beautiful in any types of jewelry, but is not recommended for rings or bracelets for frequent use.
Is it safe to wear apatite?
Apatite in Jewelry Apatite is beautiful in any types of jewelry, but is not recommended for rings or bracelets for frequent use. If used in these sorts of high-exposure jewelry, apatite should be placed in protective settings.