What is Variscite?
Variscite is a hydrated aluminium phosphate valued as a green ornamental stone and collector mineral, often showing web-like matrix patterns and rounded crusts.
Mineralogy and structure
Reference formula: AlPO4·2H2O. Variscite is orthorhombic and isostructural with strengite. It can be confused with turquoise or wavellite in polished material, so colour, matrix, locality and analysis matter. The exact COD 9007618 model is used. Variscite is classified with phosphates and has orthorhombic crystal symmetry. Typical hardness is 3.5–4.5 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 2.5–2.6.
Colour, lustre and habit
Typical colours include green, blue-green, apple-green, yellow-green, white. The usual massive, botryoidal, crusty habit and waxy, vitreous, dull lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and notable localities
Variscite forms in or is associated with phosphate-rich cavities, aluminium-bearing rocks, weathering zones and hydrothermal alteration. Important documented localities include Utah and Nevada in the United States, Germany, Australia, Brazil and Spain.
Green phosphate with a natural matrix map
Variscite is commercially strong because its green colour and dark matrix create a distinctive cabochon surface. Pattern, polish, natural colour and documented locality are the main value drivers.
Collecting and care
Protect from scratches, acids and prolonged soaking. Clean gently with a soft damp cloth and disclose stabilisation or dyeing when selling polished material.
