Pentagonite vs Cavansite: The Brilliant Blue Twins of the Mineral World

At first glance, Pentagonite and Cavansite appear nearly identical—vibrant blue, radiant, and often found together on the same matrix. But despite their visual similarity and shared origin, these two minerals are not the same. In this article, we’ll explore the differences in structure, rarity, formation, and market value between Pentagonite and Cavansite.

1. A Shared Origin with Diverging Structures

Both Pentagonite and Cavansite are vanadium-bearing silicate minerals, typically discovered in the basalt cavities of the Wagholi Quarry near Pune, India. However, their crystal structures set them apart:

• Cavansite forms in spherical or rosette-like aggregates with a more compact, fibrous habit.

• Pentagonite, on the other hand, develops into more defined, starburst-like sprays and elongated prismatic crystals, often appearing more spiky or angular.

Though they share the same basic chemical formula—Ca(VO)Si₄O₁₀·4H₂O—their crystal systems are different. Cavansite belongs to the monoclinic system, while Pentagonite crystallizes in the orthorhombic system, which gives it its distinctive shape.

2. Rarity: Why Pentagonite is the Scarcer Gem

Pentagonite is significantly rarer than Cavansite. While both minerals have been found primarily in India (especially before the closure of the Wagholi Quarry), true Pentagonite specimens with well-formed crystals are much less common. Collectors prize Pentagonite for this scarcity and for its aesthetic appeal.

In fact, many specimens labeled as “Cavansite” in the mineral trade are often misidentified Pentagonite, especially when their crystals appear sharp and spiky.

3. Color & Luster: Subtle but Notable Variations

Both minerals exhibit an intense electric blue to turquoise-blue color due to the presence of vanadium. However, some collectors note:

• Pentagonite tends to have a slightly more vivid or icy tone.

• Cavansite often leans toward a softer, velvety blue, especially when in rounded aggregates.

In both cases, the luster is vitreous, but Pentagonite sometimes reflects light more dramatically due to its sharp angles and prismatic faces.

4. Value & Market Perception

While Cavansite remains a favorite among collectors due to its affordability and abundance, Pentagonite commands higher prices per carat and specimen—particularly if the crystals are sharp, undamaged, and well-isolated.

As Wagholi mining has ceased, both minerals have seen a rise in market value, but Pentagonite is rapidly becoming a true collector’s gem due to its rarity.

5. Energetic and Metaphysical Differences

In the metaphysical crystal community:

• Cavansite is known for enhancing spiritual insight, communication, and clarity. It’s often associated with the Third Eye and Throat chakras.

• Pentagonite is said to carry even higher vibrational energy, often used in meditation for deep truth and rapid transformation.

While both are seen as high-frequency stones, Pentagonite is sometimes referred to as the “advanced Cavansite.”

Conclusion: Similar Yet Strikingly Unique

Although Pentagonite and Cavansite share a common ancestry and hue, their differences are profound—structurally, energetically, and in terms of rarity. Whether you’re a mineral enthusiast, collector, or crystal healer, understanding the nuances between these two blue beauties can enhance both your appreciation and your collection.