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
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity2.5
Colorsgreen, light green, bluish-green
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, wavellite, chalcedony
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen is a large, massive piece of variscite, displaying a vibrant mint green color with some lighter and darker veins and a rough, uneven texture on its surface. The mineral appears to be embedded within or partially covered by a lighter, possibly host rock matrix.
Geological Context
Variscite is a secondary mineral formed by the alteration of aluminum-rich rocks by phosphate-bearing waters, typically found in nodular masses, crusts, or vein fillings in phosphate deposits. It often occurs in arid regions.
