Apatite

**Chemical composition:** Ca₅(PO₄)₃(F,Cl,OH)

**Hardness:** 5

**Density:** 3.16‒3.22 g/cm³

**Crystal system:** Hexagonal Dipyramidal

**Luster:** Glassy

**Info:** Apatite is a group of phosphate minerals, usually referring to hydroxylapatite, fluorapatite and chlorapatite with high concentrations of OH, F and Cl ions in the crystals. The primary use of apatite is in the manufacture of fertilizer and it is a source of phosphorus, phosphoric acid and hydrogen fluoride for chemical industry. Apatites are similarly as other phosphates used as a host materials for storage of nuclear waste. Hydroxylapatite is the major component of tooth enamel and bones.

## Keywords
mineral apatite texture color ornamental stone semi-precious gemstone