Vanadinite
Image: Parent Géry (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameVanadinite
Chemical FormulaPb5(VO4)3Cl
Mohs Hardness2.5
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Lusterresinous
Streak Coloryellowish-white
Cleavagenone
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity6.8
Colorsorange-red, red, brownish-red, yellow
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityMibladen Mine, Mibladane, Aouli, Upper Moulouya lead District, Midelt, Khénifra Province, Meknès-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
Mineral GroupVanadates
Usesminor ore of vanadium, collector's mineral
Associated Mineralsbaryte, hollandite, galena, wulfenite, cerussite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features numerous vibrant orange-red, hexagonal vanadinite crystals clustered on a dark matrix, with some white bladed baryte crystals visible. The crystals exhibit a resinous to adamantine luster.
Geological Context
Vanadinite is a secondary mineral found in the oxidized zone of lead deposits, forming from the alteration of lead minerals in the presence of vanadium-bearing solutions. It often occurs in arid climates.
