VIVIANITE

phosphate mineral, hydrated iron phosphate [Fe3(PO4)28H2O], that occurs as colourless (when freshly exposed) or dark-blue (after long exposure), glassy crystals in the weathered zones of phosphate deposits and as concretions in clays (widespread). It also occurs in recent sediments, in lignite and peat, in forest soils, and as the colouring agent in odontolite. Localities of occurrence include England, Germany, Bolivia, Japan, and Ukraine. It is abundant in New Jersey and Colorado. For detailed physical properties, see phosphate mineral (table).