mineral

Cavansite

Cavansite (Ca(VO)Si4O10·4H2O)

Hardness: 3-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep sky blue, greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Good in one direction; Specific gravity: 2.21-2.31.

Hardness: 3-4 on Mohs scale
Color: Deep sky blue, greenish-blue
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified May 4, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep sky blue, greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Good in one direction; Specific gravity: 2.21-2.31.

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in volcanic basalt cavities and zeolites. It is frequently associated with pentagonite and apophyllite. Most high-quality specimens originate from the Wagholi Quarry in Pune, India.

Uses & applications

Primarily valued as a mineral specimen for collectors. It is occasionally used in metaphysical practices and used as a rare gemstone for jewelry, though its softness limits use.

Geological facts

Cavansite takes its name from its chemical components: CAlcium, VANadium, and SIllicate. For many years after its discovery in Oregon in 1967, it was considered extremely rare until large deposits were found in India in the 1970s.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique vibrant electric blue color and habit of forming small radiated rosettes or 'puffballs' on a matrix of white stilbite or basalt.