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Source Locality:Poona (Pune) District, Maharashtra, India
Minerals:Cavansite (Ca(VO)Si₄O₁₀·4H₂O) on gray drusy zeolite mineral, on basalt
Dimensions:approx. 9 × 7 × 3 cm
Weight:210 grams
Description:Offered is a striking cavansite specimen from the Poona District of India, displaying the intense electric-blue color for which this mineral is famous. The specimen features a cluster of cavansite crystals covering approximately 3 × 5 cm, occupying about one-quarter of the main display face.
The cavansite occurs as multiple small radiating crystal aggregates, forming well-defined starburst-like clusters with excellent saturation and visual impact. These crystals are set on a gray drusy zeolite mineral, which in turn has precipitated on a vesicular basalt host rock, creating strong textural and color contrast.
While cavansite does not cover the entire surface, the density, color intensity, and radial crystal habit of the clusters make them the clear focal point of the specimen. The prepared back allows the piece to stand securely, making it an attractive and stable cabinet display specimen.
Geologic & Mineralogical Context:Cavansite from the Deccan Traps of western India forms as a rare secondary vanadium silicate in basaltic environments, often occurring as vivid blue radiating clusters on zeolite-rich matrices within vesicles. Poona is the world’s premier locality for cavansite, and specimens with strong color, clean radiating aggregates, and good matrix contrast are especially sought after.
Photos are taken under neutral lighting and represent the specimen accurately. The exact specimen shown is the one you will receive.
Shipping:Carefully packed to ensure safe arrival. Shipping is tracked and insured.
Provenance Note:
The cabinet display card used with this mineral is included. As the card indicates on the reverse, this specimen is from the lifelong private hobby collection of a retired USGS professional. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) does not endorse, sponsor, or certify this mineral, nor has it evaluated this listing. This is a private liquidation of independent, historically sourced worldwide specimens.
