Iridescent Stones
Menu
HomeGemstonesColoursHardnessSearchIdentify

Gemstone profile and identification guide

Variscite

Variscite is a hydrated aluminum phosphate used in cabochons and carvings for green color.

4.5 Mohs Apple Green, Blue Green Phosphate (Variscite)
Variscite

Overview

Variscite is a hydrated aluminum phosphate used in cabochons and carvings for green color.

Did you know? Variscite is often confused with turquoise in the jewelry trade.

Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.

Identification

Name: Variscite

Scientific classification: Phosphate (Variscite)

Hardness: 4.5 Mohs

Transparency: opaque

Lustre: waxy to vitreous

Crystal system: Orthorhombic

Primary colour: Apple Green

Secondary colour: Blue Green

Colour family: Greens

Green phosphate appearance with lower hardness distinguishes variscite from turquoise and jade.

Verification Status

Status: verified-core-fields

Reference priority: GIA, Gem-A, Mindat, International Gem Society

Core identity, locality, and physical-property fields reviewed against standard gemological references.

Trade-name and treatment-sensitive entries include explicit disclosure language where applicable.

Physical Properties

Hardness category: medium

Hardness value: 4.5 Mohs

Chemical composition: Hydrated aluminum phosphate (AlPO4.2H2O)

Crystal system: Orthorhombic

Common locations: United States (Utah/Nevada), Australia, Brazil, Germany

Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.

Colour Variations

Soft green phosphate gemstone, often in nodular masses and matrix patterns.

Optical effects: None specified in the current dataset.

Detailed Gemology

Mineral species: Variscite

Mineral group: Phosphate group

Chemical formula: Hydrated aluminum phosphate (AlPO4.2H2O)

Mohs hardness: 4.5

Crystal system: Orthorhombic

Lustre: waxy to vitreous

Transparency: opaque

Streak: White

Cleavage: Variable by species/material

Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven

Specific gravity: 2.4-2.6

Refractive index: 1.55-1.59

Optical phenomena: None typically diagnostic

Colour range: Light green to apple green

Common inclusions: Species-dependent inclusions and growth features

Geological environment: Species-dependent

Principal mining regions: United States (Utah/Nevada), Australia, Brazil, Germany

Important commercial sources: Variscite is sourced from phosphate-rich secondary deposits

Historical significance: Recognized in gemological and lapidary trade.

Common treatments: Stabilization and dyeing may occur.

Synthetic or imitation forms: Imitations may exist depending on species.

Common look-alikes: Turquoise, dyed howlite, chrysoprase

Jewellery uses: Used in cabochons, inlay, and ornamental carvings.

Care recommendations: Moderately soft and porous; avoid chemicals, heat, and abrasive cleaning.

Cross-check profile data with GIA Gem Encyclopedia and Mindat entry for Variscite.

Formation

Forms as secondary phosphate mineral in near-surface weathering environments.

Origin

Variscite is sourced from phosphate-rich secondary deposits

Uses

Best for: Used in cabochons, inlay, and ornamental carvings.

Ideal uses: Protected jewelry settings and collector cabochons.

Variscite FAQ

How can I identify Variscite?

Compare hardness (4.5 Mohs), crystal system (Orthorhombic), colour profile, and lustre (waxy to vitreous) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.

What colour range does Variscite appear in?

Soft green phosphate gemstone, often in nodular masses and matrix patterns.

Where is Variscite commonly used?

Protected jewelry settings and collector cabochons.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.