Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite is an extremely rare member of the tourmaline group characterized by its high vanadium and chromium content, which imparts a vivid green color. It typically occurs in metamorphic environments where vanadium-bearing fluids interact with tourmaline-forming precursors. Collectors prize it for its unique composition and intense, often saturated coloration.

Hardness

7-7.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareTourmaline Group family

Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite

Hardness: 7-7.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite with a known reference. Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite sits at Mohs 7-7.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: dark green, emerald green.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite

Minerals reported to co-occur with vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Na(V³⁺,Mg,Cr)₃(Al,Mg,V³⁺)₆(Si₆O₁₈)(BO₃)₃(OH)₃O
Mohs hardness: 7-7.5
Density: 3.15-3.25 g/cm³
Colors: Dark Green Emerald Green
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphic Rocks
Typical price: $50-500 thumbnail

Where rockhounds find vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite

Classic worldwide localities

Tanzania
Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite typically forms. If you start seeing graphite, quartz, feldspar in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite?+

Mohs hardness is 7-7.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include dark green, emerald green.

Where is vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite found?+

Notable localities include Tanzania; Russia.

How much is vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 thumbnail. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What rocks look like vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite?+

Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite is most often confused with Dravite, Uvite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite?+

Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite commonly co-occurs with Graphite, Quartz, Feldspar. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite form in?+

Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite typically forms in metamorphic rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite used for?+

Vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite is used in collector.

Find vanadio-oxy-chromium-dravite on the map

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