An Insight Into Vanadinite Mineral

Vanadinite Crystals

Vanadinite is a popular mineral because of the well formed bright orange and red crystals. Vanadinite is a group of isomorphous hexagonal minerals and a member of apatite group. Its appearance and structure are like mimetite and pyromorphite, and can be partially be replaced with these minerals. Endlichite is an intermediary mineral between vanadinite and mimetite. In this article, we will help you know more about vanadinite.

What is Vanadinite?

Vanadinite is a natural mineral comprising vanadium, chlorine, oxygen, and lead. It contains a chemical composition of Pb₅(VO₄)₃Cl.

This mineral is a minor source of lead and essential vanadium ore. Vanadinite forms where oxidation of mineral lead occurs, especially in areas with an arid climate. It is not a common mineral and, if available, one can find it in small quantities. It was given a name because of its vanadium content.

Vanadinite History

Typically found in a form of hexagonal crystals, vanadinite is a dense, brittle mineral. Vanadinite deposits have been recently unearthed in South America, North America, Africa, and Europe. In 1801, this mineral was first discovered in Mexico.

Mineral Properties of Vanadinite

Chemical formula: Lead Chlorovanadate Pb₅(Vo₄)₃Cl
Color(s): Red, orange, brownish orange, yellow
Streak: brownish yellow
Luster: resinous
Transparency: Translucent, opaque
Crystal system: Prismatic
Specific Gravity: 6.8-7.1
Hardness (Mohs): 3-4
Cleavage: none
Fracture: uneven to conchoidal
Uses: A major lead ore, collectable in Australia, Namibia, Argentina, Morocco and the Southwestern United States.

Physical Characteristics of Vanadinite

Vanadinite has several properties, which, when combined, make it easy to identify. It often has short bright crystals and a hexagonal structure with adamantine to resinous luster. These crystals can be brown, orange, red, or yellow color. It can also be found in incrustations and globular forms on other minerals. Being an ore of lead, vanadinite has a high specific gravity of between 6.6 to 7.2 and a low hardness of 3 to 4 on the Mohs hardness scale. This mineral has a yellowish-brown brittle streak that can easily break.

Geologic Occurrence of Vanadinite

Vanadate is a secondary mineral that forms on lead deposits in an oxidized zone. It is founded in oxygenated veins containing secondary and primary lead minerals. This mineral is typically associated with the oxidation of galena. The chlorine and vanadium are often leached from overburden by flowing water. If you are looking for vanadinite deposits, they are usually found in Australia, Namibia, Argentina, Morocco and the Southwestern United States.

Uses of Vanadinite

Vanadinite is a minor lead ore. Both lead and vanadium are produced where vanadinite is mined. Mineral collectors like vanadinite because of its attractive hexagonal structure, and bright colors.

Metaphysical Properties of Vanadinite

Vanadinite mineral is used in releiving the negativity associated with PTSD. It is especially useful in dealing with the base chakras and solar plexus. It also encourages individuals to express their ideas and energy easily. Vanadinite also helps in meditation to stop running thoughts that cannot just stop. Learn more about the metaphysical properties of vanadinite here.

You can find Vanadinite Crystals for sale at fossilicious.com.

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