Vanadinite is a secondary mineral formed due to the oxidation of lead sulphide minerals such as galena in usually arid climates. Vanadium, the element not to be confused with vanadinite, and chlorine are dissolved from overburden by water above these deposits providing vanadium and chlorine for the oxidation of lead minerals into vanadinite (Pb5(VO4)3Cl). First discovered in Mexico in 1801, now has sizable deposits in Australia, Morocco, Argentina and the United States.