Vesuvianite identification and geology

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• Epidote
• Grossular
• Diopside

Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner

GeoMiner

Last updated

2026-03-30T14:36:55.424591+00:00

Review status

Published; not independently peer-reviewed

• IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
• Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

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Common questions

What is Vesuvianite?

Complex calcium aluminum silicate also known as idocrase. Forms distinctive tetragonal prismatic crystals in skarns.

How can you identify Vesuvianite?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Green, brown, yellow, purple; lustre: Vitreous to resinous; streak: White; Mohs hardness: 6.5; cleavage: Poor; crystal system: Tetragonal; transparency: Translucent to opaque. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Vesuvianite form?

Forms in skarns at the contact between limestone and igneous intrusions.

Where is Vesuvianite commonly found?

Italy Vesuvius , Canada Quebec , USA, Russia; found in contact metamorphic zones.

What is Vesuvianite commonly confused with?

Vesuvianite may be confused with Epidote, Grossular, Diopside. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.