Vanadinite - Mibladen, Morocco | Ref. 69

Large vanadinite crystals from the famous locality of Mibladen in Morocco (year 2019) producing the most remarkable specimens in the world.

Its chemical formula: Pb5(VO4)3Cl, which means that it is composed of lead, vanadium, oxygen and chlorine. Mohs scale: 2.75 to 3

With its beautiful dark red colour and very good crystallisation, this is an ideal specimen for a collection. 

Stone dimensions: L: 60mm x W: 40mm x H: 50mm x weight with base: 255g.

Origin of the name vanadinite.

Vanadinite was first discovered in 1801 by the Spanish mineralogist Andrés Manuel del Río in Mexico.

It was initially confused with red lead (crocodite). It was not until 1830 that Nils Gabriel Sefström, a Swedish chemist, correctly identified the element vanadium in the mineral, and the mineral was named "vanadinite" after Vanadis, another name for the Norse goddess Freyja, because of the mineral's variety of colours.

Cleaning vanadinite

• Handle with care to avoid damaging its fragile crystals.
• Rinse gently under a stream of lukewarm water.
• If necessary, use a mild non-abrasive soap and a soft bristle brush to remove any dirt.
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry with a soft cloth or air dry on a towel.

Explore our catalogue of vanadinite to see the specimens currently available.