Alien eye fluorite is a variety of fluorite that’s become a cult favorite among collectors. Black outer zones surround intense, emerald-green-colored diamond shapes at the center of the crystal that resemble extraterrestrial alien eyes.
Under backlight, alien eyes even give off a menacing, otherworldly glow.
Where Alien Eye Fluorite Is Found
Alien eye fluorite comes from the Erongo Region of Namibia. All of this special fluorite was found in what is known as the “Alien” or “Alien Eye” pocket in 2007 and is one of the most sought-after finds in mineral collecting. This small pocket contained fewer than 30 fine specimens. The largest and most spectacular is the “Eyes of Africa” – a 2-foot-tall specimen discovered by miner, Herold Gariseb, that is on display in the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas, Texas.
Alien Eye Fluorite Formation
Erongo Mountain was an active volcano 140 to 150 million years ago. As the magma-filled chamber and element-rich waters began to slowly cool, alien eye fluorite and other aesthetic minerals such as tourmaline, quartz and aquamarine grew within the pockets.
Fluorite is composed of calcium fluoride (CaF2 ) and belongs to the halide mineral group. Alien eye fluorite’s rings are formed through zoning. As the crystals grow, variations in chemical composition and environmental conditions result in different layers forming. These layers reflect light differently, giving rise to alien eye fluorite’s distinctive banding patterns.
Color & Fluorescence
One of the most distinctive properties of fluorite is its fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) light. Alien eye fluorite is no exception and glows an ‘eerie’ royal blue under longwave UV light. This phenomenon is caused by the replacement of calcium by europium ions.
Alien Eye Fluorite Physical Properties
Fluorite is a relatively ‘soft’ mineral having a Mohs hardness of 4. Fluorite also displays perfect cleavage in four directions, which means it can be easily split into octahedral fragments. Fluorite can range from transparent to translucent, with some specimens exhibiting exceptional clarity. Fluorite has many uses, including in industry as a flux for smelting, in the production of glasses and enamels and is also used as a gemstone.
Protective Eye
For metaphysical believers, alien eye fluorite is said to possess protective properties, it is often used in crystal healing and energy work. Advocates suggest that alien eye fluorite can aid in spiritual awakening, enhance intuition and promote mental clarity.
This story about alien eye fluorite previously appeared in Rock & Gem magazine. Click here to subscribe. Story by Dr. Stuart Mills and Pam Freeman.
