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
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagegood on {010}, but rarely observed due to massive habit
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.5
Colorsgreen, bluish-green, apple-green
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityUtahlite claim (Lucin Variscite), Lucin, Lucin District, Pilot Range, Box Elder County, Utah
Mineral GroupPhosphates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralscrandallite, wardite, millisite, quartz
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen displays a vibrant apple-green to bluish-green color, often with a waxy luster, intergrown with a lighter greyish-white matrix material forming intricate patterns.
Geological Context
Variscite is a secondary mineral formed by the alteration of aluminum-rich rocks by phosphate-rich waters, typically occurring in nodular masses, crusts, or vein fillings in arid environments.
