A new atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based measurements on synthetic clays was investigated, which for the first time allowed the determination of elastic constants of individual clay platelets. The employed Na_0.5- fluorohectorite with the stoichiometry [Na_0.5][Li _0.5Mg_2.5][Si₄]O₁₀F₂ was synthesized through a melt synthesis. The Mo-crucibles was heated in a radio frequency induction furnace applying two differently designed water-cooled coils. Prior to synthesis, the crucible and the conical lid were heated in a vertical position with the reaction-coil to approximately 1600°C for cleaning purposes. After sealing, the crucible is heated with the reaction coil at 1900°C for 20 mm and then the melt is quenched by switching off the radio frequency. A powder X-ray diffraction analysis of the employed Na _0.5-fluorohectorite confirmed that at the relative humidity, the first state of hydration is realized with Na⁺ as an interlayer cation.