AllMineralsRock
Variscite
Variscite is a popular gemstone composed of aluminum phosphate. [1]
Variscite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Variscite:- Transparency: Variscite can be opaque or translucent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, variscite is orthorhombic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, variscite can be dull, vitreous (glassy) or waxy.
- Streak: Variscite streaks white.
- Hardness: Variscite's hardness ranges from 3.5 to 4.5 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Variscite's specific gravity ranges from 2.2 to 2.57.
Variscite: Background and Summary
Variscite is a rare, hydrated aluminum phosphate mineral that is known for its striking green-blue color. It was first discovered in the Vogtland district of Germany in 1837 and was named after the Latinized name for the ancient Celtic region of Variscia. Variscite is typically found in nodules or crusts in association with other phosphates, such as turquoise and chalcosiderite, and is often mistaken for the more well-known mineral, turquoise.One of the easiest ways to identify variscite is by its color. It ranges from light green to blue-green and can have a waxy or greasy luster. It is also relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of only 4-5, and can be scratched with a fingernail. Additionally, variscite is typically found in association with other phosphate minerals, which can help narrow down its identification.
Despite its rarity, variscite has a few practical uses. It is sometimes used as a gemstone, although it is not as popular as other green-blue gemstones like turquoise or chrysocolla. It is also used in the production of phosphoric acid, which is used in a variety of industrial processes, including the production of fertilizers and detergents.
Variscite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Variscite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | translucent, opaque |
| Chemical Formula | AlPO4· 2(H2O) |
| Chemical Composition | aluminum phosphate |
| Specific Gravity | 2.2, 2.57 |
| Hardness | 3.5, 4.5 |
| Streak | white |
| Crystallography | orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.563, 1.594 |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: green sometimes: red, blue, brown, white, yellow less common: pale, violet, colorless |
| Category | phosphate |
| Birefringence | δ = 0.031 |
| Fracture | 1: 12: 2 |
Variscite: FAQ
Q: Is variscite a valuable mineral?A: While variscite is relatively rare and has a unique color, it is not as valuable as other gemstones like diamonds or emeralds. However, it is still prized by collectors and can be used in jewelry.
Q: Where is variscite found?
A: Variscite is found in a few locations around the world, including Germany, Australia, the United States, and Brazil.
Q: Is variscite toxic?
A: No, variscite is not toxic. However, like all minerals, it should be handled with care and not ingested.
Sources
- "Variscite Mineral Data." Webmineral, http://webmineral.com/data/Variscite.shtml.- "Variscite: Mineral information, data and localities." Mindat.org, https://www.mindat.org/min-4172.html.
- Variscite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variscite
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