What it probably is, Purple stuff? No, not fluorite.. Options

[NewRockHounder]

After doing some book research I came upon "Purpurite," based on the description provided, IE occurs as crusts, compact, granular masses, brittle, slightly powdery consistency - it 99.8% matches what I have. Why did I leave off .2%? - Because, I don't have any means, currently, to do a scratch test. Book says it will leave a dark red streak.

A ceramic tile would work for a scratch test, right? Just to remind ya's what the deuce I'm talking about, provided some pics, again. (The first pic looks different then the rest, because it's sprayed with clear coat as not to crumble.. more so than it had)

[Dave S.]

Sorry ! I forgot something important on my previous posts. When doing a flame test, be careful because some minerals can give off harmful fumes. The main one to look out for (smell for) is ARSENIC . Minerals that have arsenic can give off a "garlic like" smell, even if they are not being heated. So if you smell garlic when preforming a flame test, stop breathing the fumes. The fumes can be toxic, and irritating to the lungs. Many minerals from granite (especially Pikes Peak granite) can contain this toxic element.

Furthermore, any fumes that are irritating to your throat or lungs should cause you to stop the flame test. Sorry for the late safety tip!