Variscite
What is Variscite?
Variscite is a hydrated aluminum phosphate mineral, often found in the United States, Australia, and Germany. It’s primarily used as a gemstone and is popular for its green color, often resembling turquoise.
Variscite is a unique gemstone that comes in shades of green, often resembling turquoise. Its unique appearance and color make it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative items, especially beads and pendants.
| Chemical Classification | Inorganic - Phosphate |
| Color | Variscite is typically green, ranging from light mint green to darker emerald shades. |
| Streak | White |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous. |
| Transparency | Opaque. |
| Occurrence | United States (especially Utah), Australia, and Germany. |
| Formation | Variscite forms in near-surface clay deposits through the process of oxidation. |
| Diaphaneity | Translucent to opaque |
| Cleavage | None |
| Mohs Hardness | 3.5 to 4.5. |
| Specific Gravity | 2.57. |
| Diagnostic Properties | Green, often confused with turquoise. |
| Chemical Composition | AlPO4·2H2O |
| Pleochroism | None. |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Optical Properties | Biaxial (+) |
| Refractive Index | 1.563 - 1.590 |
| Birefringence | 0.009 |
| 2V angle | Measured: 58° to 63° |
| Dispersion | Not notably high. |