What is Scheelite?
Scheelite is a dense calcium tungstate, prized for bright tetragonal crystals, strong fluorescence and its role as an important tungsten ore mineral.
Mineralogy and crystal structure
Reference formula: CaWO4. Scheelite is tetragonal and forms a series toward powellite. Blue-white fluorescence under shortwave ultraviolet is a useful clue, but not every specimen fluoresces equally and associated minerals can interfere. Scheelite is classified with tungstates and has a tetragonal crystal system. Typical hardness is 4.5–5 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 5.9–6.1.
Colour, lustre and habit
Typical colours include white, colourless, yellow, orange, brown, green. The usual tetragonal, dipyramidal, granular habit and adamantine, vitreous lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and notable localities
Scheelite forms in or is associated with hydrothermal veins, skarns, greisens and granite-related ore deposits. Important documented localities include China, Bolivia, Peru, South Korea, the United States, Austria and Sweden.
A heavy crystal with a hidden blue glow
Scheelite has a strong collector proposition: daylight can show a pale adamantine crystal while ultraviolet light reveals a second visual identity. Sharp form, fluorescence and mine provenance drive demand.
Collecting and care
Protect crystal tips from impact and clean gently. Avoid acids and strong heat; use UV equipment responsibly and retain locality documentation.
