Vanadinite
Vanadinite is a lead chlorovanadate famous for its brilliant red to orange hexagonal crystals. A heavy, secondary mineral of oxidized lead deposits, it is highly sought by collectors and serves as an ore of both vanadium and lead.
Vanadinite properties at a glance
| Type | Vanadate Minerals |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Pb5(VO4)3Cl |
| Mohs hardness | 3 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | resinous |
| Streak | Brownish yellow |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Specific gravity | 6.9 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | Red, Orange, Brown, Yellow |
| Rarity | uncommon |
Geology & background
Vanadinite forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidized weathering zones of lead ore deposits, where circulating waters react with primary lead minerals in arid climates.
Vanadinite was first described in 1838, and the element vanadium had been discovered partly through study of related lead vanadate minerals. It became a notable vanadium ore and a prized collector mineral.
How to identify Vanadinite
- Look for bright red to orange hexagonal prismatic crystals with a resinous luster.
- Unusually high density from lead content helps distinguish vanadinite from similar minerals.
- Occurrence in oxidized lead deposits and a brownish yellow streak support identification.
Where Vanadinite is found
Vanadinite occurs in oxidized lead deposits in arid regions, with world-famous specimen localities in Morocco and additional finds in the United States, Mexico, Namibia, Argentina, and Austria.
How much is Vanadinite worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $10 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $60 |
| Premium specimen | $500+ |
Value depends on crystal color, size, luster, locality, damage, and overall aesthetics.
Common uses
- Vanadium ore
- Minor lead ore
- Collector specimens
- Educational mineralogy
Interesting facts
- Vanadinite forms striking hexagonal prism crystals, often bright red or orange.
- It is an important ore of the metal vanadium, used to strengthen steel.
- Its high lead content makes vanadinite unusually heavy for its size.
- Morocco's Mibladen district produces some of the world's finest vanadinite specimens.
Care & safety
Vanadinite is soft and brittle, and its lustrous crystals chip and abrade easily.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a proper respirator.
Contains lead. Vanadinite is a lead mineral; wash hands after handling and keep specimens away from food and children.
