Description
Vanadinite Crystal Specimen – Natural Mineral from Morocco
This striking Vanadinite crystal specimen from Morocco is an exceptional display piece known for its vivid red to orange hexagonal crystals and its sparkling, high-gloss lustre. Vanadinite is one of the most visually captivating secondary lead minerals and is highly sought after by collectors for its intense colour, well-defined crystal shapes, and geological rarity.
You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photographs. Full sizing is available directly in the images to ensure complete accuracy. Each specimen is carefully chosen for clarity, colour, and aesthetic quality.
All of our specimens are 100% genuine, and every purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Background – Vanadinite Formation in Morocco
Vanadinite (Pb₅(VO₄)₃Cl) is a lead chlorovanadate mineral that forms as a secondary oxidation product in the upper zones of lead ore deposits. Morocco is one of the world’s most famous sources of vanadinite, particularly from the mineral-rich regions surrounding Mibladen and Touissit, where desert conditions and oxidising environments create ideal geological settings for its formation.
Vanadinite develops through the alteration of primary lead minerals such as galena. As water percolates through the arid desert rocks, it carries vanadium-bearing solutions into oxidised lead-rich areas, where vanadinite precipitates as vibrant hexagonal crystals.
Moroccan deposits are especially prized because they often produce:
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Large, well-defined hexagonal crystals
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Intense red to fiery orange colouration
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High translucency and glassy lustre
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Strong contrast against white or brown matrix rock
These features make Moroccan vanadinite among the most collectible mineral specimens in the world.
Crystal Type, Structure & Physical Characteristics
Vanadinite belongs to the Apatite supergroup and crystallises in the hexagonal system, forming distinctive, tightly packed crystals that often resemble tiny barrels or hexagonal plates.
Key characteristics of this vanadinite specimen include:
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Bright red to orange colour, caused by trace vanadium content
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Sharp hexagonal crystal faces, showing classic six-sided symmetry
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High lustre, giving crystals a brilliant, reflective surface
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Translucency, allowing internal glow when held against a light source
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Dense crystal coverage, often forming clusters or drusy coatings
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Typical association with limonite or sandstone matrix, adding visual contrast
The mineral’s colour, form, and brilliance make vanadinite instantly recognisable and highly desirable.
Associated Minerals & Locality Significance
Moroccan vanadinite deposits commonly occur alongside:
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Galena (lead sulphide)
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Barite
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Wulfenite
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Descloizite
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Goethite
These minerals together create complex geological assemblages ideal for collectors and researchers studying oxidation processes in lead ore systems.
The Mibladen mining district is especially famous for producing vanadinite specimens with:
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Exceptional red saturation
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Thick crystal coatings
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Minimal damage due to favourable extraction conditions
This makes Moroccan vanadinite an important reference mineral in global collections.
Display, Collecting & Decorative Appeal
Because of its vivid colour and sparkling crystal texture, vanadinite is a standout piece in any mineral cabinet. It is ideal for:
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Serious mineral collections
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Shelf or cabinet display
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Home décor with a natural or earthy aesthetic
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Educational and geological study
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Photography and artistic arrangements
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Gifts for mineral enthusiasts and collectors
The intense colour and geometric structure create an eye-catching aesthetic that draws immediate attention.
Authenticity & Presentation
• 100% genuine vanadinite mineral specimen from Morocco
• Certificate of Authenticity included
• Exact piece shown in all images is the specimen you will receive
• Full sizing clearly visible in photos
• Carefully selected for colour, crystal form, and visual impact
This natural Moroccan vanadinite crystal specimen is a stunning example of one of the world’s most beautiful lead-based minerals—an exceptional addition to any mineral or fossil collection.





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