Variscite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameVariscite
Chemical FormulaAlPO₄·2H₂O
Mohs Hardness4.5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagegood on {010}
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity2.5
Colorsgreen, blue-green, yellowish-green
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityLucin District, Pilot Range, Box Elder County, Utah, USA
Mineral GroupPhosphates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralscrandallite, strengite, wavellite, chalcedony
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features a vibrant apple-green, polished surface of variscite, contrasting with the surrounding duller, earthy green matrix of the nodule.
Geological Context
Variscite is a secondary mineral formed by the alteration of aluminum-rich rocks, often in phosphate-bearing deposits, typically found in veins, nodules, or concretions.
