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Variscite is an opaque gemstone with interesting color splotches and veins. It is usually a light or minty-green with whitish patterns. Almost all Variscite gemstones originate from Utah, and for this reason it may also be called Utahlite. In fact, the most important deposit of gemstone-grade Variscite is actually called the Utahlite Deposit.
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The unique color habits and patterns of Variscite make it exotic and attractive. However, it is not a common gemstone and thus not readily available. Variscite lacks durability and therefore should not be washed
with chemicals or cleansers. It is also a relatively soft
gemstone, and extra care should be exercised to prevent
scratching.
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Variscite is mainly used as a collectors gemstone or exotic green gemstone. It is cut into cabochons and used as pendants, and is also used in beads and in ornate carvings.
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Variscite gemstones are natural and not enhanced.
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The only significant source of gemstone-grade Variscite is the Utahlite Claim, in the Lucin District, Box Elder County, Utah. Outstanding Variscite nodules associated with other phosphate minerals come from Clay Canyon, near Fairfield, Utah County, Utah, and these are sometimes also cut or carved into gemstones.
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Variscite is softer than Jade, softer and lighter in color than Amazonite. It is less intensely green than Chrysoprase, and is not blue like Turquoise or Chrysocolla.
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Have a question about Variscite? Visit our Q&A Community and ask the experts!
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