Mineral

Variscite (or potentially a turquoise/variscite matrix cabochon, or an impression jasper)

AlPO4·2H2O (Variscite) or related phosphate/silicate material depending on exact composition

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3.5-5 (Mohs), Color: light green, blue-green, sometimes mixed with brown/tan matrix. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic (typically massive).

Hardness: 3
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified June 18, 2026More mineral →

Explore Variscite (or potentially a turquoise/variscite matrix cabochon, or an impression jasper) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Variscite (or potentially a turquoise/variscite matrix cabochon, or an impression jasper)
Scientific name: AlPO4·2H2O (Variscite) or related phosphate/silicate material depending on exact composition
Category: Mineral
Identified: June 18, 2026
Method: Advanced

AI Estimated Value

$10-$50 for a cabochon like this depending on size, pattern uniqueness, and source.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-5 (Mohs), Color: light green, blue-green, sometimes mixed with brown/tan matrix. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic (typically massive).

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary mineral in aluminum-rich rocks deposited by phosphate-bearing water, often in near-surface weathering zones.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts for cabochons, beads, and carved jewelry.

Geological facts

Often confused with turquoise, variscite tends to be greener and lacks copper. The webbing or matrix is caused by host rock inclusions during formation.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive pale green to blue-green color and prominent matrix patterns. Usually softer than turquoise. Found in locations like Utah, USA.