Comparison · Minerals vs Phosphate Minerals
Cerussite vs Vivianite
Cerussite and Vivianite are easy to confuse. Cerussite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Vivianite (Mohs 1.75), so Cerussite will scratch Vivianite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Cerussite and Vivianite
- Cerussite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Vivianite (Mohs 1.75), so Cerussite will scratch Vivianite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily.
- Streak color differs: Cerussite leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Vivianite leaves bluish white.
- Cerussite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 6.5–6.6 versus 2.68 for Vivianite).
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Cerussite is Transparent to translucent, Vivianite is translucent.
- They overlap in clear, blue, and green, but Cerussite also comes in gray.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Cerussite is Orthorhombic, Vivianite is monoclinic.
Cerussite vs Vivianite properties
| Property | Cerussite | Vivianite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Phosphate Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 3–3.5 | 1.75 |
| Luster | Adamantine to vitreous/resinous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | Bluish white |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 6.5–6.6 | 2.68 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | monoclinic |
| Common colors | Colorless, White, Gray, Blue (rare), Green (rare) | Blue, Green, Colorless |
| Rarity | common | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $10–$400+ |
Which is more valuable?
Vivianite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $60 against $20 for Cerussite, and premium Vivianite can reach $400 or more.
About Cerussite
Cerussite is lead carbonate, PbCO3, a heavy, brittle mineral that forms in the oxidized gossan zones of lead ore deposits. Its very high density and strong adamantine luster make it feel and look far more valuable than its modest hardness would suggest, and colorless crystals can show fire approaching that of diamond. It commonly develops as twinned, reticulated, or star-shaped crystal groups.
About Vivianite
Vivianite is a hydrated iron phosphate that is colorless when fresh but oxidizes to deep blue and green. It forms bladed, prismatic, or fibrous crystals and earthy masses, and is a favorite of collectors for its rich color.
Cerussite vs Vivianite FAQ
Is Cerussite the same as Vivianite?
No. Cerussite is a mineral while Vivianite is a phosphate mineral. Cerussite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Vivianite (Mohs 1.75), so Cerussite will scratch Vivianite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily.
How can you tell Cerussite from Vivianite?
Cerussite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Vivianite (Mohs 1.75), so Cerussite will scratch Vivianite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily. Streak color differs: Cerussite leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Vivianite leaves bluish white. Cerussite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 6.5–6.6 versus 2.68 for Vivianite).
Which is harder, Cerussite or Vivianite?
Cerussite is harder: Mohs 3–3.5 against Mohs 1.75 for Vivianite.
Which is more valuable, Cerussite or Vivianite?
Vivianite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $60 against $20 for Cerussite, and premium Vivianite can reach $400 or more.
