Vanadinite – Arizona Mineral Specimens
Rich in color and full of character, these Vanadinite specimens showcase one of Arizona’s most recognizable collector minerals. Known for its brilliant red, deep crimson, and warm orange-red crystals, Vanadinite is a striking addition to any mineral collection.
These specimens originate from Arizona, a state celebrated for its remarkable mineral diversity and historic mining districts. The possible localities include the North Geronimo Mine / Red Cloud Mine area of La Paz County or the Apache Mine in the Globe Hills Mining District of Gila County. Although the precise mine of origin has not been confirmed, both areas are recognized for producing notable Vanadinite specimens.
Whether displayed as a colorful centerpiece or added to a collection of classic Arizona minerals, Vanadinite offers a beautiful combination of geological interest, history, and natural artistry.
A Little Arizona Mining History
Arizona has a long and fascinating history of mineral collecting, and Vanadinite is part of that story.
In western Arizona, the Red Cloud and North Geronimo mines are located in the historic Silver Mining District near the Trigo Mountains. The Red Cloud Mine became especially famous for its spectacular Wulfenite specimens, while the nearby North Geronimo Mine gained recognition among collectors for its exceptional Vanadinite crystals. Some of the North Geronimo material recovered during the 1990s is now considered a classic Arizona mineral find.
Further east, the Apache Mine in the Globe Hills Mining District of Gila County is another well-known Arizona Vanadinite locality. It has produced deep red, stocky, prismatic crystals that are highly appreciated by mineral collectors.
These two areas help illustrate just how varied Arizona's mineral deposits can be. Even though we cannot confirm which mine produced these particular specimens, their possible origins connect them to some of the state's notable mineral localities.
Mineralogical Properties
- Mineral: Vanadinite
- Chemical Formula: Pb₅(VO₄)₃Cl
- Mineral Class: Phosphate, arsenate, and vanadate
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
- Color: Red, crimson, orange-red, and reddish brown
- Luster: Resinous to sub-adamantine
- Hardness: 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale
- Possible Localities: North Geronimo Mine / Red Cloud Mine area, La Paz County, or Apache Mine, Globe Hills Mining District, Gila County, Arizona
Vanadinite is a lead chlorovanadate mineral that typically forms in the oxidized portions of lead-bearing ore deposits. It often develops as small, well-defined hexagonal crystals, sometimes appearing as short barrels or compact prismatic formations.
Its intense coloration comes from its vanadium content. The combination of vivid color and distinctive crystal habit makes Vanadinite a favorite among mineral collectors.
A Note About Handling: Vanadinite contains lead. As with other lead-bearing mineral specimens, wash your hands after handling, avoid creating or inhaling dust, and keep specimens away from children and pets.
