Fluorite, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

Fluorite is not a commonly occurring mineral species in the state of Wisconsin, but here's a rare example of the elusive Wisconsin fluorite. This specimen has an interesting story- it was found in the Sturgeon Bay area (Door County) during the excavation of a new parking lot. This example shows a bright fluorescent and phosphorescent response under all UV wavelengths.

The bright, multi-wavelength fluorescence and phosphorescence/afterglow of this Sturgeon Bay fluorite specimen is activated by organic inclusions within the fluorite. Note the zoning of the response.

The same specimen, shown under visible light. Amber colored fluorite cubes on a minor matrix of calcite and dolomite.