Apatite
The Apatite gemstone is a member of the Apatite Group of minerals which are a collection of phosphates, arsenates and vanadates that have
similar structures. Apatite is usually separated into three more minerals, within the group, namely, fluorapatite, chlorapatite and
hydroxylapatite, which depend on the predominance of fluorine, chlorine or the hydroxyl group. As it is difficult to distinguish between them,
they are given the general name apatite. The mineral can be colourless, white, yellow, brown, pink, red, purple, blue and green and even
multi-coloured. The variety of colours is due to natural irradiation or the presence of rare earth elements. Apatite has a hardness of 5 on
the Mohs' scale, so care should be taken with the stone.
Apatite is found in igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. It is a common mineral and fine deposits are found worldwide. Apatite is
found abundantly in the Kola Peninsula in Russia, with other deposits in Germany, Austria, Portugal, Brazil, Sri Lanka and Mexico. The apatite
found in Spain is usually greenish-yellow and is called ‘asparagus stone’. Recent discoveries of a neon green to neon blue colour apatite in
Madagascar have increased the popularity of the stone.
The name Apatite comes from the Greek word ‘apate’ which means ‘to deceive’, because the gem was often confused with stones such as beryl,
Paraiba tourmaline and peridot. Although apatite has a long history with humans, there are very few traditions relating to it, probably due to
the early mistakes about its identity. However, one tradition is that, rather ironically, ‘Apatite’ has been associated with ‘appetite’
suppression for centuries. It is also believed to enhance creativity and self-confidence. Apatite is also recognized as one of the gemstones
for the zodiac sign of Gemini.