Vivianite Crystal Fan

Description

A dramatic fan of long, closely packed blue-green Vivianite blades rising from a contrasting brown matrix.

Attributed to the São Gabriel da Cachoeira area of Amazonas, Brazil, this Vivianite specimen combines an unusually strong, elongated profile with a dense arrangement of parallel bladed crystals. The blades spread from a compact brown matrix into a distinct fan, with lengthwise crystal faces catching light from different viewing angles.

The colour is deep blue-green and can appear nearly black under some lighting, while bright reflections reveal subtle green-blue tones and the fine structure of the blades. At 15 × 6 × 5 cm and 252 g, it is a memorable display piece for a mineral cabinet.

Exact specimen: Please examine each view for natural crystal features and condition. Vivianite is light-sensitive: keep it away from prolonged direct sunlight, and handle the blades gently.

The specific mining claim and identity of the small brown associated crystals are not confirmed, so neither is asserted here.

The bladed growth described here gives the specimen a strong sense of direction. Overlapping elongated forms create layers and spaces through the group, while reflections emphasise individual edges. The overall arrangement is worth appreciating alongside the details of each exposed surface, particularly when comparing the piece with more compact crystal clusters.

Vivianite is a hydrated iron phosphate mineral. Fresh material may be very pale, with oxidation producing blue and green tones that can deepen considerably. It is known for elongated and flattened crystals as well as grouped growth. Its colour is therefore linked to the mineral’s chemistry and changes after formation, rather than simply being a decorative surface effect.

The bladed habit gives a Vivianite group a distinctive sense of direction. Overlapping crystals can create a fan-like outline, with differences in translucency and reflection bringing out individual edges. It is a soft mineral with pronounced cleavage, so delicate exposed growth benefits from gentle handling. The arrangement of the blades is as important to the display as the depth of the colour.

The recorded origin is São Gabriel da Cachoeira area, Amazonas, Brazil. Within a collection of Vivianite specimens, this locality gives the piece a geographical identity alongside its particular crystal habit and natural setting.

The specimen measures 15 × 6 × 5 cm, with a recorded weight of 252 g. The proportions give a useful guide to its place in a display, with the individual crystal arrangement and mineral association remaining the principal points of interest.

Vivianite is soft and its blades should be treated gently. Support the matrix when moving it and choose a stable display position away from strong direct light. Protecting the thin exposed growth preserves the fan-like arrangement that gives the specimen its character.