Description
Cavansite is a hydrated calcium-vanadium silicate with the chemical formula Ca(V5+O)Si4O10·4H2O. This phyllosilicate, which belongs to the mica group, exhibits a green to dark blue color with a vitreous luster, a blue-white streak color, and good cleavage along the [010] crystal face. It has an average density of 2.25 and a hardness of 3 to 4. The crystal system is orthorhombic, and the mineral is not radioactive. The name cavansite is derived from the elements calcium, vanadium, and silicon in its composition. Cavansite is found primarily in secondary mineralizations in andesites and basalts, with the type locality being the area around the Owyhee Dam in Malheur County, Oregon, USA. The Wagholi Quarry near Pune, India, is currently the primary source.
