Crystal Vanadite

Chemical Formula

Pb₅(VO₄)₃Cl

Composition

Lead chloro-vanadate. The vanadate radical (VO₄) may be partially replaced by an arsenate radical (AsO₄), thus forming a series with Mimetite.

Variable Formula

Pb₅([V,As]O4)₃Cl

Color

Bright red, orange, brown, yellow-brown, yellow, greenish-brown, gray. Crystals may also be multicolored.

Streak

Light yellow

Hardness

2.5 - 3

Crystal System

Hexagonal

Crystal Forms 
and Aggregates

Occurs as prismatic and stubby hexagonal crystals, which are commonly partially hollow or may have a hopper growth pattern. Crystals are occasionally pyramidal. Also occurs as small hexagonal plates, as pyramidal clusters, as groups of bent or rounded crystals, fibrous, crusty, radiating, acicular, reniform, and mammilary.

Transparency

Transparent to opaque

Specific Gravity

6.7 - 7.2

Luster

Greasy to adamantine

Cleavage

None

Fracture

Conchoidal to uneven

Tenacity

Brittle

In Group

Phosphates; Vanadates

Striking Features

Color and luster, crystal habits, and occurrences

Environment

As a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of lead ore deposits.

Rock Type

Sedimentary, Metamorphic

Popularity (1-4)

2

Prevalence (1-3)

2

Demand (1-3)

1