Global Gemology - Rare Gems & Jewels
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VARISCITE

Picture
Variscite mounted in a sterling silver setting
Variscite ring
Species:  Variscite
Mohs Hardness:  3.5 to 5 out of 10
Color:  Yellowish-green to bluish-green, often mottled or with veining
RI:  1.57 spot reading
Birefringence:  Usually not detectable
SR/DR/AGG:  AGG
Fluorescence:  Inert to weak green under LW and SW
SG:  2.50 (+/-0.10)

Variscite Facts

Picture
Variscite ring in sterling silver
Variscite ring

Variscite is named after "Variscia", the historical name of the Vogtland district in Saxony, Germany, where it was originally discovered in 1837.
Sources of variscite include Germany, Australia, Austria, Brazil, China, Czech Republic, and the United States.

Since variscite can be bluish green and commonly has matrix veining, it is often confused with turquoise.

Variscite mined in Utah is sometimes referred to as "Utahlite".

All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • SHOP
  • SERVICES
    • APPRAISALS
    • SELL YOUR JEWELRY
  • GEMOLOGY
    • GEM ENCYCLOPEDIA
    • THE ART OF GEMOLOGY
  • JEWELRY EDUCATION
    • DIAMOND FACTS
    • JEWELER DIRECTORY
    • JEWELRY PERIODS
    • POCKET WATCHES
    • NATIVE AMERICAN JEWELRY
  • GLOSSARY