Vanadinite, Large

This relatively rare mineral is lead vanadate chloride. Crystals are usually long prisms, but can also be hair-like. It is a secondary mineral in oxidized ore deposits containing lead and is often associated with galena, barite, wulfenite, and limonite. Vanadinite is a major source of vanadium, which is used for refining steel, making it strong with considerable shock resistance. Vanadium is also used in the manufacture of sulfuric acid and nylon. Fine specimens of vanadinite are found in Morocco, Brazil, Scotland, and the USA. Metaphysically, Vanadinite is used to aid decision-making.