description Vesuvianite Overview
Vesuvianite is a calcium-aluminum silicate mineral that forms mainly in contact-metamorphic rocks and some skarns. It occurs in colors including green, brown, yellow, blue, and reddish brown, and may form prismatic crystals or massive aggregates. The mineral was first described from volcanic blocks near Mount Vesuvius in Italy, which provided its name. Vesuvianite is also known as idocrase and is sometimes cut as a gemstone.
help Vesuvianite FAQ
What type of mineral is vesuvianite?
Vesuvianite is a calcium-aluminum silicate mineral. It commonly forms in contact-metamorphic rocks and in skarns, where hot fluids alter carbonate-rich rocks.
What colors can vesuvianite be?
Vesuvianite occurs in green, brown, yellow, blue, and reddish-brown colors. Green material is often especially attractive when it is transparent and suitable for cutting.
Does vesuvianite form crystals or massive rock?
It can form prismatic crystals or occur as massive aggregates. Crystal shape and transparency depend on the geological environment where it formed.
Why is vesuvianite also called idocrase?
Idocrase is an older and still-used name for vesuvianite, especially in the gemstone trade. The mineral name vesuvianite refers to Mount Vesuvius, where it was first described.
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