Apatite (Ca5(PO4)3(F,OH,Cl)) is a general term given to the series of phosphate minerals fluorapatite (contains fluorine), hydroxylapatite (contains a hydroxyl), and chlorapatite (contains chlorine). Fluorapatite is the most important mineral commercially, being the world's major source of phosphorus. Carbonate fluorapatite occurs in fossil bones and teeth, while carbonate hydroxylapatite is the principle component of contemporary human bones and teeth. The US, Mexico, Namibia, and Russia all have notable deposits. Apatite is an important source of phosphorus, used in matches and in fertilizers.


The name is derived from the Greek apate, meaning "deceit," in allusion to it being confused with other minerals such as aquamarine, olivine, and fluorite.


Apatite is 5 on the Mohs hardness scale.


Metaphysically Known For: Psychic activation, access to knowledge