Variscite is a hydrated aluminum phosphate mineral that grows in masses and crusts. It's often a secondary mineral found in deposits where waters with phosphate content interact with aluminum-based minerals. Rare variscite crystals have an octahedral shape. They are opaque (sometimes translucent near their edges) and have a glassy to waxy lustre.

The Physical Properties of Variscite

Variscite has chromium content which gives the crystal its yellowish green to bluish green shade. Because of its green appearance, variscite is sometimes mistaken for turquoise. Although the former has a sharper green shade and doesn't contain copper.

Some variscite specimens can have traces of iron which can make the mineral brown. The higher the iron content, the browner the crystal becomes.

Variscite can also have a white vein on its body due to the presence of the white mineral crandallite. Specimens with this unique inclusion are cut into cabochons for jewelry use.

In terms of hardness, variscite is rated 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale which makes it prone to abrasion or scratching if used in a bracelet or ring. It is best suited for earrings, pendants, pins, and other jewelry applications that don't subject the mineral to high impact.

The History of Variscite

The name variscite was derived from variscia, the historical name of the Vogtland district of Saxony Germany where the mineral was discovered. The German mineralogist August Breithaupt found the mineral in massive, fine-grained aggregates in 1837.

Variscite is found in Australia, Brazil, Germany, Poland, Spain, and the USA (specifically in Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming).

The Lore of Variscite

Like other green stones such as green aventurine, variscite is linked to acquiring wealth and attracting prosperity. It is also thought to boost cognitive function and improve a person's logic and intellect. And while it increases brain power, variscite relieves anxiety and stress. It is also believed to increase feelings of joy.

The Metaphysical Properties of Variscite

Variscite is a heart stone which helps you get in touch with your inner life. It is known for clearing mental cobwebs and inducing inner peace. It's also the best stone to work with if you desire to be more in control of your emotions.

When we find ourselves stuck in a complicated situation, we seek to simplify information to make better decisions. Using variscite in such a situation will help you navigate through issues without fixating on possible outcomes.

Moreover, the stone will teach you to release worries and anxieties for the future and to take control of your responses. In effect, you'll be able to live in the present and make decisions that's appropriate for the situation.

Meditate with variscite and hold it over your heart to fully tap into its healing abilities. Sift through the negative emotions that are holding you back and surrender them as you meditate with the mineral.

Crystal healers recommend using variscite together with other heart stones like rose quartz, rhodochrosite, pink tourmaline, chrysoprase, or green calcite to maximize its effect. These minerals also help generate pure love when combined with variscite during meditation, adding compassion to your aura.

And as a result, you'll become more optimistic about the future and the things around you. Your mind and heart will well up with confidence and positivity.

Sources:

Arem, J. (n.d.). Variscite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information. International Gem Society. Accessed at https://www.gemsociety.org/article/variscite-jewelry-and-gemstone-information/

King, H. (n.d.). Variscite. Geology.com. Accessed at https://geology.com/minerals/variscite.shtml

Variscite Meaning and Properties. (n.d.). Fire Mountain Gems and Beads.* Accessed at https://www.firemountaingems.com/resources/encyclobeadia/gem-notes/j41z

Variscite. (n.d.). The Crystal Council. Accessed at https://thecrystalcouncil.com/crystals/variscite

Variscite Gemstone Information. (n.d.). GemSelect. Accessed at https://www.gemselect.com/gem-info/variscite/variscite-info.php