fluoraavaa

Fluoraavaa is a rare and unique mineral species, first discovered in the late 20th century. It is characterized by its vibrant green fluorescence under ultraviolet light, which is a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other minerals. The name "fluoraavaa" is derived from the Finnish words "fluora" meaning fluorescence and "avaa" meaning open, reflecting the mineral's luminescent properties.

The mineral is primarily composed of calcium, fluorine, and silicon, with a chemical formula of Ca2SiF6. It crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system and typically forms as transparent, prismatic crystals. Fluoraavaa is found in low-temperature hydrothermal veins associated with granite and other igneous rocks. It is relatively soft, with a hardness of approximately 3.5 on the Mohs scale, and has a specific gravity of about 2.9.

Fluoraavaa is not typically found in large quantities and is primarily of interest to mineral collectors and scientists studying luminescence in minerals. Its fluorescence is particularly notable for its long persistence, meaning the glow can last for several minutes after exposure to UV light has ceased. This property makes fluoraavaa a valuable subject for research in the fields of mineralogy and photoluminescence.

The mineral was first identified in Finland, in the region of Lapland, where it occurs in small, isolated deposits. Due to its rarity and the challenges of mining in the region, fluoraavaa is not widely available commercially. However, its unique properties have led to a growing interest in the mineral among collectors and researchers.