How to identify natural apatite?

Apatity – These are stones of the phosphate group; they contain the same elements as human bones and teeth. This is a very common breed that is found on our planet in large deposits. But the vast majority of mined mineral layers are not of special quality, suitable for creating, for example, inserts into jewelry or for buying into a collectible sphere. Rare examples of apatite often end up in private collections, but such stones usually have unique colors such as asparagus or purple. The remaining samples are used in jewelry, and low-quality ones are sent to industry. Since ancient times, apatites have served as a cheaper counterfeit of expensive minerals. Therefore, since ancient times, a similar name was attached to the stone, meaning “deception, deceitful.” Even today, this rock is often used to imitate other stones. Appearance Apatity has a fairly wide range of colors, which includes various shades of yellow, blue, lilac, and pink. Some shades can be combined to form rare and expensive specimens, for example, green-blue. Unique colors are purple and rare shades of green, for example, the color of asparagus. Quite often, apatites are born completely colorless. It is precisely because of the wide color palette that this rock is often used to imitate more expensive stones. These are average in terms of hardness and strength apatite minerals, which cannot be scratched by glass, but are easily damaged by harder objects, for example, a file or stronger stones. Apatites take on a glassy luster after polishing. Nature produces both transparent samples, which are more valuable and are used in jewelry, and translucent and cloudy ones. Apatites are afraid of sunlight, which can affect their external characteristics and color. Performing the shaping Due to their average hardness and strength, apatites are often subjected to various types of cutting. The most complex options, of course, are not applicable to them, but the most common ones can be done quite well. Only transparent specimens are suitable for jewelry, which are given more shine and shine thanks to step cuts. Apatites with inclusions in the form of oblong shapes or cat’s eyes are not so widespread. These specimens are given a cabochon shape to preserve their shape and size and to show off their full beauty. Such stones are much more expensive than ordinary apatites. Minerals tend to change color when exposed to heat, so some samples are subject to heat treatment to improve their hue. Bright blue specimens are usually obtained this way. What’s strange is that green apatites are sold without refining. Application Apatites are common minerals with many uses. Being a phosphate stone, the rock is often used to create industrial products, less often – for jewelry. Most of the mined mineral is used to produce fertilizers and extract phosphorus and phosphoric acid. The stone is well suited for the manufacture of ceramic and glass products; it is used in metallurgy. Transparent samples with beautiful shades are sent to make jewelry inserts. Jewelry craft is not very developed for apatite due to its medium hardness. It will not withstand every cut, and therefore it is taken for inserts only if it has a beautiful color and good transparency. The collections include clear or translucent samples of apatites of rare colors or sizes. Usually these are stones mined in unique places, which have their own history and original external data. Magical properties Apatity are excellent defenders in dangerous situations. This is probably why they are considered the stones of rescuers, firefighters, stuntmen, and doctors. Due to its protective functions, the mineral can be worn as a talisman by many other people, especially those in trade professions, travelers, and teachers. Apatity are very loyal stones that are loyal to one owner. They protect him, give him strength, and protect him from misfortune. Once in the hands of another person, the mineral will “communicate” with him in a completely different way. Some people may feel a slight burning sensation where the stone is worn, but this is not something to be afraid of, as the mineral shows its power and protects the owner. This is a crystal of light energy, it cannot be used by black magicians, the stone will never serve in the name of evil. That is why it is good to place mineral products in your home to protect your home from enemies. It is believed that apatite serves as an excellent amulet for children. The stone should be placed in the cradle of a newborn or near his legs. Apatite will not only serve as a protector, but will also help the child develop properly, strengthen his bones and skeleton, and reduce the possibility of falls and bruises. Medicinal properties Apatites are strong protectors not only in the magical aspect, but also in the therapeutic aspect. In many ways, they help with diseases of the thyroid gland, eliminate sore throat and other throat diseases. It is believed that apatite can help in any situation related to human health and safety, therefore it is a universal talisman that protects against almost all diseases. Like any natural apatite stone copes well with the emotional component of its owner. It lifts your spirits and gives you strength. With the help of such a talisman, depression, neuroses, and hysteria are treated. The stone helps you calm down, put your thoughts in order, and find a solution to a problem. In many meditative practices, apatite is used as a stone of contemplation and concentration. The mineral eliminates excessive excitability, insomnia, leads to balance, and in special cases helps to comprehend the truth and find oneself. Counterfeits Apatites are usually not counterfeited, since the stone itself is an excellent imitation for other more expensive minerals. It is often confused with beryls and topazes, amethysts, and tourmalines. But, like any other natural stone, it can also be counterfeited from cheaper raw materials – plastic, glass, acrylic. In this case, you can distinguish apatite from other stones or imitations in the following ways:

• Check the hardness of the stone. It cannot be scratched by glass, but it can be damaged by a file or harder crystals. Those minerals that apatite resembles usually have greater hardness.
• Hold the mineral first in one hand, then move it to the other. The real stone should remain cool, but the fake one will become warm.
• If you have a plastic imitation in front of you, it is usually lighter than real stone of the same size.

Care

Stones of Apatity They are not considered too fragile minerals, so they do not require special care. But, like any other decoration, they need to be looked after no less carefully. They should only be washed with a delicate detergent and plenty of running water, subsequently wiping with a piece of soft cloth. Do not use aggressive detergents, abrasives, or brushes for cleaning.

Apatites are unstable to heat and long-term exposure to sunlight. Do not store them in direct sunlight or near heating appliances. It is best to place the stone in a separate compartment in a box or personal bag.

Apatite stone is quite common in nature. Its deposits are located in many countries; in Russia, the mineral is mined in the Urals and the Kola Peninsula. Apatite has several varieties, each of which resembles other minerals in appearance and properties. The color of the stone also varies and depends on the admixtures of other substances. Due to its similarity with other stones, apatite received its name, which translated from Latin means “deceptive.”

Physical properties of the gem and its use

The main group of this mineral consists of chlorapatites, hydroxyapatites and fluorapatites. There are also additional minerals, but they are quite difficult to distinguish from each other. The most common form of stone is fluorapatites, which are small crystals. Basic physical properties of apatite stone:

• hardness coefficient on the Mohs scale is 5;
• mineral density 3,2 g/cm³;
• glass shine;
• conchoidal fracture;
• imperfect cleavage;
• hexagonal system.

Apatite is a simple mineral that does not have any unique external characteristics. However, the richness of its colors ensured this crystal’s popularity in jewelry. Apatite comes in a variety of colors, from light blues and pinks to deep purples and dark greens. There are both completely transparent and colorless minerals, as well as opaque specimens.

The mineral is not dense and quite fragile, so it is difficult to process. But small stones are used as inserts in jewelry. Gems undergo different types of cutting. Yellow, green and blue stones are especially popular among jewelers. Apatites with a cat’s eye effect look beautiful. Blue apatite is most often used in jewelry. Craftsmen love it for its luxurious iridescent color, which changes shades from different viewing angles.

The gem is one of the main sources of calcium phosphate on our planet, as it consists of phosphorus. It is used in agriculture and industry. Phosphorus fertilizers and fertilizers are made from crystals. Apatites are used in ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy; they are used in the manufacture of certain types of ceramics and glass.

Magical and healing properties

Apatite is a mineral that is actively used by lithotherapists. The gem, whose healing effect depends on the place where it is worn, is suitable for almost everyone. Rings with apatite will help strengthen bones and tooth enamel, improve the condition of the oral cavity, bracelets will relieve osteochondrosis, heal wounds and fractures. Earrings will relieve insomnia, apathy and bad mood. Those who wear necklaces and pendants with stones strengthen their immune system and improve their overall health.

According to the horoscope, apatite is most suitable for people seeking to determine life guidelines and find their place. Astrologers recommend wearing jewelry with this gem for earth and fire zodiac signs. For Virgos, Taurus and Capricorns, the stone will help them find contact with people around them and get rid of such character traits as stubbornness and distrust. It will help Leos, Aries and Sagittarius to curb their violent temper and direct their energy in the right direction.

The magical properties of apatite are also varied. A mineral whose energy is aimed at harmonizing thoughts and feelings will protect the owner from life’s adversities. A talisman made from this crystal is useful for every family to have. It brings happiness and love to the house, improves relationships between relatives, protects against discord and quarrels, and returns a spouse who is addicted to alcohol.

The stone protects from envious people and the evil eye. Charms with a gem will help those whose profession is connected with a large number of people. Children can also carry a product with apatite. He will give them energy and protect them from mistakes and failures.

The magical properties of blue and blue apatite are especially strong. The blue mineral cleanses the aura and affects the human mental body. It is often used in hypnosis sessions when placing the patient in a trance, as the stone helps to open access to the subconscious. The blue gem is a powerful motivator. It improves memory, concentrates attention, and increases creativity. For people in public, a blue stone will help win the affection of others and eliminate the fear of speaking in front of an audience. Apatite will help unemployed people find work and realize their professional potential.