Vivianite is a fascinating and dynamic mineral known for its striking blue-green hues and its ability to darken upon exposure to light. This remarkable mineral has intrigued mineralogists, collectors, and metaphysical enthusiasts alike, and its growing popularity makes it a topic worth exploring. From its chemical composition to its rare occurrences in nature, this blog delves into the many aspects of vivianite, including its history, suitability for jewellery, and even its connection to ancient fossils.
Chemical Composition and Crystal Forms
Vivianite is a hydrated iron phosphate, with the chemical formula Fe₃(PO₄)₂·8H₂O. It typically forms in environments rich in iron and organic material, often in sedimentary deposits, fossilized shells, and peat bogs. The mineral crystallizes in the monoclinic system, forming elongated prismatic crystals (above) or tabular crystals (below right). It can also appear as fibrous aggregates or earthy masses, depending on the conditions in which it forms.
One of vivianite’s most distinctive features is its colour transformation—freshly unearthed specimens are often colourless or pale green but quickly deepen into rich blue-green or deep indigo as they oxidize. Vivianite undergoes photo-oxidation, meaning that exposure to light causes its iron (Fe²⁺) to oxidize to Fe³⁺, leading to a darkening of the mineral. Over time, this transformation can reduce the vibrancy of the crystal’s colour and make it appear almost black. To maintain its striking blue-green hues, vivianite specimens should be stored in dark, stable environments with minimal exposure to direct light.
Where is Vivianite Found?
Vivianite is found in a variety of geological settings across the globe. Some of the most notable localities include:
Bolivia – Produces some of the finest and largest deep blue crystal specimens.
Russia – Well-known for its beautiful vivianite crystals found in fossilized shells in Crimea.
Germany – One of the earliest discovery sites for vivianite.
United States – Found in states such as Colorado, Alaska, and Virginia, often in iron-rich clay deposits.
Australia – Occurs in phosphate-rich sedimentary formations.
In many cases, vivianite is associated with decomposing organic material, including bones, shells, and even buried wood, where it forms as a secondary mineral.
History and Interesting Facts
Vivianite was first described in 1817 and named after John Henry Vivian, a British mineralogist and politician who discovered the mineral in Cornwall, England. Since then, it has fascinated collectors due to its vibrant colour changes and association with fossilized remains.
Unlike minerals such as quartz or feldspar, vivianite has no significant industrial applications. However, it has been used in scientific research to study oxidation processes and phosphate mineralization. Occasionally, vivianite is also studied in archaeological contexts, as it can form in human burial sites and help researchers understand ancient preservation conditions.
One of the most intriguing occurrences of vivianite is in Crimean shell fossils, where the mineral has completely replaced ancient mollusc shells. These fossils are an extraordinary example of how minerals can preserve biological structures over time. The two excellent examples below are from Kerch and Halbinsel, Crimea.
Suitability for Jewellery
Despite its stunning colour, vivianite is not suitable for jewellery. Several factors make it impractical as a gemstone:
Softness – With a Mohs hardness of only 1.5–2, vivianite is extremely fragile and scratches easily.
Cleavage – The mineral has perfect cleavage, making it prone to breaking.
Light Sensitivity – As discussed, vivianite darkens when exposed to light, making it unsuitable for daily wear.
For these reasons, vivianite is almost never faceted, and when it is, the stones are primarily for collection purposes rather than jewellery use. Despite these facts sellers are offering vivianite set into jewellery on Etsy, owners may be disappointed when their crystals break or turn black, buyers beware.
How Common is Vivianite?
Vivianite is considered uncommon, but it is not exceptionally rare. High-quality crystals are still difficult to find, particularly those with deep blue coloration and good transparency. The best specimens are typically sourced from Bolivia and Russia, making them highly prized among collectors.
Its increased popularity in recent years is due to a growing appreciation for aesthetic and unique minerals, as well as rising interest in rare phosphate minerals in general. Additionally, the discovery of exceptional vivianite specimens, particularly from regions like Bolivia, has captivated the mineral-collecting community. These high-quality finds have further fuelled interest and demand among collectors.
Is Vivianite expensive?
That depends on a number of factors, including size, colour and crystal formation. Crystals that have turned black are less desirable unless they are in fossil shells and then then the colour matters less. Large well formed specimens can command high prices, particularly as collector quality specimens are really hard to find. Often the crystals are black, damaged or ill formed. The photo below (left) shows a large crystal group from Bolivia, the colour is good but the piece formed in a vug where there was insufficient space and as a result many of the crystals are not terminated well as they grew against the side of the vug. The example on the right from Kerch is very black but has a very unique crystal formation, like pom poms. Finding all of the desirable attributes in a single example is very difficult!
Metaphysical Properties
In metaphysical circles, vivianite is believed to be a stone of insight and emotional healing. Some of its purported properties include:
Emotional Clarity – Thought to help release deep-seated emotions and past traumas.
Spiritual Awakening – Believed to open the heart and third eye chakras, enhancing intuition.
Renewal and Growth – Symbolically linked to new beginnings and inner transformation.
Final Thoughts
Vivianite is a mineral of deep beauty, scientific intrigue, and historical significance. Whether admired for its colour-changing properties, its association with ancient fossils, or its purported metaphysical benefits, it remains a mineral that captures the imagination. While unsuitable for jewellery, its unique qualities make it a must-have for serious collectors.
As interest in unusual and rare minerals grows, vivianite is likely to become even more popular in the years to come. If you’re lucky enough to own a vivianite crystals, remember—keep it in the dark to preserve its brilliance!