Back to list
Back to list
Cavansite
Main Deposits
India (Pune region) is the main source and produces the best specimens in the world. It has also been found in the United States (Oregon) and New Zealand.
Description and Characteristics
Cavansite is a hydrated calcium-vanadium silicate (hence its name: calcium-vanadium silicate). It is found mainly in cavities within basaltic rocks, forming as a secondary mineral resulting from hydrothermal activity. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is famous for occurring in the form of small spherical aggregates or ‘rosettes’ of acicular crystals resting on a matrix of white stilbite or apophyllite, creating a striking visual contrast.
| Chemical Formula | $$Ca(VO)Si_4O_{10}·_4H_2O$$ |
|---|---|
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Streak | Light blue |
| Fracture | Conchoid |
| Cleavage | Good |
| Hardness | 3-4 Mohs |
| Crystal System | Aggregate |
Did you know...?
The name of this mineral derives from the elements it is composed of: calcium, vanadium and silicates.
It is a ‘young’ mineral in terms of its discovery, having been first described in 1967. Due to its fragility and beauty, specimens in matrix (on white stone) are highly prized collector’s items and should not be cleaned with hot water or chemicals, as they can be easily damaged.
It is a ‘young’ mineral in terms of its discovery, having been first described in 1967. Due to its fragility and beauty, specimens in matrix (on white stone) are highly prized collector’s items and should not be cleaned with hot water or chemicals, as they can be easily damaged.
New-Age Properties
Cavansite is known as the stone of spiritual revelation. It possesses a very high vibration that helps connect with higher dimensions and process metaphysical information.