Vanadinite

Vanadinite
Vanadinite

Vanadinite
is a mineral belonging to the apatite group of phosphates, with the chemical formula Pb₅(VO₄)₃Cl. It is one of the main industrial ores of the metal vanadium and a minor source of lead. 
 
A dense, brittle mineral, it is usually found in the form of red hexagonal crystals. It is an uncommon mineral, formed by the oxidation of lead ore deposits such as galena. First discovered in 1801 in Mexico, vanadinite deposits have since been unearthed in South America, Europe, Africa, and in other parts of North America.


Vanadinite
Deep red vanadinite crystals on baryte,
from Mibladene, Midelt, Khénifra Province, Meknès-Tafilalet, Morocco

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