Variscite
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameVariscite
Chemical FormulaAlPO₄·2H₂O
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Streak Colorwhite
CleavageGood on {010}, but rarely observed due to massive habit
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity2.5
Colorsgreen, bluish-green, white, brownish-grey
Transparencytranslucent to opaque
Type LocalityUtahlite claim (Lucin Variscite), Lucin, Lucin District, Pilot Range, Box Elder County, Utah
Mineral GroupPhosphates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralscrandallite, strengite, wardite, wavellite, chalcedony, quartz, limonite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen is a large, irregular slab of variscite displaying vibrant apple-green to emerald-green hues, intricately veined and mottled with white and brownish-grey matrix material. The surface shows both smooth and rough textures, indicative of its massive habit.
Geological Context
Variscite is a secondary mineral that forms in aluminum-rich rocks, such as shales or limestones, through the action of phosphate-rich waters, typically occurring as nodules, crusts, or vein fillings.
