Vanadinite For Sale

Vanadinite is a striking mineral known for its vibrant red, orange, and brown hues, often forming in dense clusters of hexagonal prismatic or tabular crystals with a glassy, resinous shine. Found in the oxidized zones of lead deposits, vanadinite typically associates with minerals like barite, wulfenite, and galena. Though relatively fragile with a hardness of 3-4 on the Mohs scale, its bold colors and sharp crystal formations make vanadinite a favorite among collectors.

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Exceptional Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - Morocco #34895

Exceptional 4.2" Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - Morocco

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Top-Quality, Deep Red Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - Morocco #231837

Top-Quality, 4.4" Deep Red Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - Morocco

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Top-Quality, Deep Red Vanadinite Crystals on Barite - Morocco #231844

Top-Quality, 6.6" Deep Red Vanadinite Crystals on Barite - Morocco

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Huge Deep Red Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - Morocco #178385

Huge 5.5" Deep Red Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - Morocco

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Red Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - BIG CRYSTALS! #39163

5.25" Red Vanadinite Crystal Cluster - BIG CRYSTALS!

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Deep Red Vanadinite Crystals on Barite - Morocco #231838

6.2" Deep Red Vanadinite Crystals on Barite - Morocco

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Blood Red Vanadinite Crystals - Morocco #32316

2.5" Blood Red Vanadinite Crystals - Morocco

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More About Vanadinite

Vanadinite is a lead chlorovanadate mineral with the chemical formula Pb₅(VO₄)₃Cl. It belongs to the apatite group of phosphates, forming as a result of the oxidation of lead ore deposits. Its unique, fiery red to orange-brown colors, paired with its hexagonal crystal structure, make it visually appealing. In addition to its beauty, vanadinite has practical applications, primarily as an ore of vanadium and a minor source of lead.

It commonly forms in hexagonal crystals, which can appear as short prisms or rounded, barrel-shaped crystals. Its structure lends itself to both individual crystals and clusters, often forming in radial aggregates or encrustations over other minerals or rock surfaces. The crystal faces of vanadinite are often smooth and can appear slightly curved, lending a unique, waxy luster that makes vanadinite unmistakable. In terms of color, vanadinite varies from deep red to brownish orange, sometimes with yellow or gray overtones. The vibrant red specimens are especially valued by collectors.

Vanadinite forms in arid climates where lead deposits are abundant. These regions provide the ideal environmental conditions for vanadinite to form, especially due to the oxidation of lead ores in a desert-like setting. Notable localities include:

Morocco - The Mibladen mining district in Morocco is one of the most famous sources of high-quality vanadinite specimens, characterized by rich red crystals.

Mexico - Mexico has produced significant vanadinite specimens, particularly from the Sierra de Los Lamentos in Chihuahua.

USA - In Arizona, the Apache Mine, and other localities in Yavapai and Mohave Counties, are well-known for producing bright red vanadinite crystals.

Namibia - The Otavi Mountain region has also yielded specimens of vanadinite, often found in association with other interesting minerals.

Other Countries - Vanadinite is also found in smaller quantities in nations like Zambia, Argentina, and some European locations.

Mineral Associations

Vanadinite is often found in association with a range of secondary lead minerals due to its formation in oxidized lead deposits. Some of the commonly associated minerals include:

Wulfenite - Another lead-based mineral, wulfenite’s orange to yellow crystals often accompany vanadinite in the same deposits.

Mimetite - Mimetite, a mineral similar in structure to vanadinite, can be found alongside it, sometimes forming intergrowths or mixed crystal specimens.

Galena - As a lead ore, galena is often the precursor mineral from which vanadinite forms in oxidation zones.

Descloizite - This vanadium mineral can be found in association with vanadinite in certain deposits, particularly in African localities.

Barite - Barite can occur alongside vanadinite, providing a striking contrast with its white or clear crystals.

The presence of these minerals with vanadinite not only adds to the beauty of mineral specimens but also provides valuable geological context for u

nderstanding the oxidation and weathering processes that form vanadinite.

Safety and Handling of Vanadinite

While vanadinite is a beautiful and interesting mineral, it’s essential to handle it carefully due to its lead and vanadium content. To ensure safe handling, avoid inhaling any dust from vanadinite, as inhaling particles that contain lead and vanadium can be hazardous; for this reason, vanadinite should not be ground or broken. Additionally, it’s advisable to wash hands thoroughly after handling it since lead can be absorbed through skin contact over time. Due to its toxicity, vanadinite should also be kept out of reach of children and pets who might accidentally ingest it. When displaying vanadinite, consider placing it in a sealed display case to minimize direct contact and prevent any dust dispersion, ensuring both safety and preservation.

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Large, Ruby Red Vanadinite Crystal Aggregation - Morocco #104759

More About Vanadinite

Mineral Associations

Safety and Handling of Vanadinite

Featured Photos