Reviews
5.9" Glittering, Ruby Red Vanadinite Crystals on Barite - Morocco
This is a beautiful, 5.9" wide specimen of sparkling, ruby-red vanadinite crystals on a white barite matrix from Mibladen, Morocco. The vanadinite crystals are on the smaller side but cover most of the specimen and exhibit a gorgeous luster.
About Vanadinite From Morocco
Vanadinite from Morocco is world-famous for producing some of the finest red crystal specimens on the planet. In the arid hills surrounding Mibladen and Taouz, vanadinite forms as vibrant clusters of hexagonal prisms, often with a deep crimson to orange-red color that seems to glow against the pale desert matrix. These crystals typically develop in dense groups, coating barite blades or covering weathered limestone with dazzling, glassy faces and sharp geometric symmetry. The dryness of the region and the slow oxidation of ancient lead deposits create the perfect geochemical environment for vanadinite to grow with exceptional clarity, luster, and intensity of color. Moroccan vanadinite is highly prized by collectors for its bold aesthetics, architectural crystal formations, and the consistent quality that has made these localities the global benchmark for the species.
Safety Warning: The lead and vanadium in the vanadinite can be harmful if absorbed into the blood stream by inhalation or ingestion. The crystals won't pose a health hazard just sitting on a shelf, but we recommend that you wash your hands after handling.
Vanadinite from Morocco is world-famous for producing some of the finest red crystal specimens on the planet. In the arid hills surrounding Mibladen and Taouz, vanadinite forms as vibrant clusters of hexagonal prisms, often with a deep crimson to orange-red color that seems to glow against the pale desert matrix. These crystals typically develop in dense groups, coating barite blades or covering weathered limestone with dazzling, glassy faces and sharp geometric symmetry. The dryness of the region and the slow oxidation of ancient lead deposits create the perfect geochemical environment for vanadinite to grow with exceptional clarity, luster, and intensity of color. Moroccan vanadinite is highly prized by collectors for its bold aesthetics, architectural crystal formations, and the consistent quality that has made these localities the global benchmark for the species.
Safety Warning: The lead and vanadium in the vanadinite can be harmful if absorbed into the blood stream by inhalation or ingestion. The crystals won't pose a health hazard just sitting on a shelf, but we recommend that you wash your hands after handling.
The ACF Mine In Morocco
The ACF Mine in Mibladen, near Midelt, Morocco, is part of a historic lead-mining district that began operation in the early 20th century. Originally developed for its rich galena deposits, the mine thrived for decades under industrial extraction before large-scale operations wound down in the 1970s. As commercial mining declined, the abandoned workings and oxidized ore zones revealed a new kind of treasure—vibrant secondary minerals formed through long-term alteration of the original lead ores.
In the years that followed, ACF evolved into one of the world’s premier destinations for mineral collectors, especially renowned for producing exceptional vanadinite specimens with sharp, lustrous crystals in vivid red hues. Local artisanal miners continue to explore the old tunnels and spoil heaps, occasionally striking new pockets that send ripples of excitement through the global mineral market. Today, the ACF Mine is celebrated not only for its mining legacy but for its ongoing role as a source of some of the finest collector-grade vanadinite ever discovered.
The ACF Mine in Mibladen, near Midelt, Morocco, is part of a historic lead-mining district that began operation in the early 20th century. Originally developed for its rich galena deposits, the mine thrived for decades under industrial extraction before large-scale operations wound down in the 1970s. As commercial mining declined, the abandoned workings and oxidized ore zones revealed a new kind of treasure—vibrant secondary minerals formed through long-term alteration of the original lead ores.
In the years that followed, ACF evolved into one of the world’s premier destinations for mineral collectors, especially renowned for producing exceptional vanadinite specimens with sharp, lustrous crystals in vivid red hues. Local artisanal miners continue to explore the old tunnels and spoil heaps, occasionally striking new pockets that send ripples of excitement through the global mineral market. Today, the ACF Mine is celebrated not only for its mining legacy but for its ongoing role as a source of some of the finest collector-grade vanadinite ever discovered.
$85
SPECIES
Vanadinite & Barite
LOCATION
ACF Mine, Mibladen, Midelt, Morocco
SIZE
5.9 x 2.65"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#278232
