Vivianite is a bluish mineral that can be found in multiple archaeological deposits. It belongs to the group of phosphates and is known for its tendency to change color from white to bluish, green, or black on exposure to air.
This gem is named after John Henry Vivian, an English mineralogist, who first discovered it in the Cornwall region.
This stone is one of the most fragile in the world, to the point that it can be cut with a knife. Therefore, it is not so common that it is worn as a piece of jewelry. However, professional collectors tend to take a great interest in this gem. Do you want to know the origin, properties and uses of this mineral? This article is for you.
Physical and chemical properties of vivianite stone
the vivianite stone is a hydrated iron phosphate mineral It may contain small amounts of magnesium, manganese, and calcium. Calcium can even substitute for iron in the structure. The chemical formula of this mineral is Fe3(PO4)two8HtwoEITHER.
This stone in its pure state is colorless and transparent, but its high level of oxidation allows it to change color easily. Upon oxidation, the color may be dark blue, bluish-green, or blue-green.
| Name | Vivianita |
| class, group | Phosphates, vivianite group |
| Formula | Fe3(PO4)2 8H2O. |
| Etymology | After JH Vivian, the English mineralogist who discovered the species. |
| Idea | A secondary mineral in ore veins. Also occurs as an alteration product of primary phosphate minerals in granite pegmatites; forms as sedimentary concretions. |
| Colors | Colorless (fresh); darkens to shades of green and blue, then dark green, dark bluish-green, dark purplish, bluish-black. |
| Fracture | Fibrous |
| Mohs hardness | 1.5-2 |
| cleavage | Perfect 1 direction |
| usability | Poor |
| crystallography and shape | Monoclinic. Prismatic, tabular, equidistant crystals; in clusters, radial groups. Also massive, sharp, fibrous; crusts, earthy masses. |
| Refractive index | 1,569-1,675 |
| Gloss | Vitreous, pearly at the neckline;also dull, earthy. |
| specific gravity | 2.64-2.68 |
| Transparency | transparent to opaque |
| feature identification | The color darkens with light. |
The hardness of vivianite is only 1.5 to 2 on the Mohs scale., which makes it a fragile and flexible gem when cut. The clarity is transparent to opaque when earthy, while the luster is vitreous or pearly at the neckline.
The crystal system is monocyclic., with long, flattened prismatic crystals that may be corroded or rounded. In addition, they can present inlays or star clusters, dusty and earthy.
Meaning and metaphysical properties of the vivianite gem
The pseudoscientific belief, that is, one that is not based on studies proven by science, affirms that the vivianite stone is one of the most valuable when it comes to bring love and peace into people’s lives.
This gem is believed to have the power to drive away any negative energy of our environment, in addition to eliminating anxiety and allowing us to think clearly.
In meditation sessions, the mineral vivianite helps to concentrate all energies in one place. By removing any tension and worry, it is claimed that this stone can bring you out of stagnation and prepare the mind to attract new ideas.
On a spiritual level, it is believed that the vivianita facilitates astral travel and connections with other divine planes. In love, the vivianita promotes empathy between couples, so that they can solve any communication problems that affect the relationship.
Origin, formation and deposits of the mineral vivianite
The occurrence of the vivianita occurs as a secondary mineral in various geological settings :
- In oxidation zones of metallic mineral deposits (monteras) and iron deposits.
- In glauconitic (glauconite) sediments.
- In granite pegmatites containing phosphate.
- In alluvial deposits that replace organic matter, minerals and soils.
- Near iron deposits.
In some cases, teeth and bones buried in peat bogs can be replaced by this mineral. Despite being a fairly rare mineral, vivianite is found in multiple locations around the world. Some of the most important are Brazil, Cameroon, Canada, Germany, Japan, Kosovo, Mexico, Russia, Spain, the US and New Zealand.
Vivianite Stone Uses
The brittleness and softness of this stone make it difficult to handle safely. However, there are precious pieces that are highly prized by collectors. In addition, there are industrial applications for vivianite.
When the concentration and quality make it a profitable mineral from the economic point of view, it can be exploited as basic ingredient for dyes.