Crystal Encyclopedia

Choose a letter, pick a stone from the list, and read about it: what it is made of, how hard it is, what it looks like, what it has traditionally been said to do, and how to look after it.

450 minerals

Variscite

The Calm Green Stone of Prosperity

Also known as: Utahlite, Variquoise

About the stone

Variscite crystal
Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A hydrated aluminum phosphate mineral. Opaque with a waxy luster. It is relatively rare & sometimes confused with turquoise, however variscite is greener. The green being attributed to small amounts of trivalent chromium. Named in 1837 for Vogtland, Germany, also known as Variscia. The variety from Nevada typically contains black spider webbing & is often mistaken for green turquoise.

Mineral data

  • Chemical composition: Variscite is a hydrated aluminum phosphate mineral with the formula AlPO4.2H2O, with small amounts of chromium giving its green color.
  • Hardness: 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale.
  • Color: Light to deep green or bluish green, opaque with a waxy luster; Nevada material often carries black spiderweb veining.

Metaphysical data

Variscite, a calm green stone often mistaken for turquoise, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to open the heart, welcome prosperity and encourage trust in one's path.

Calming and Reassuring Energy

  • Variscite is thought to bring a sense of calm knowingness and trust in the universe and in one's own path.
  • It is believed to relieve anxiety and bring joy to the wearer, lightening the spirit with quiet reassurance.

Emotional Healing

  • Variscite is said to enhance self-reliance and raise one's moral standards, allowing one to remove people and things that drain energy and vitality.
  • It is thought to activate the heart chakra, removing blocks and aiding the ability to love fully and accept love.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

  • Variscite is associated with the heart chakra, where its soothing green is believed to open and refresh the center of compassion.
  • By clearing blocks in the heart, it is said to make room for a wholehearted give-and-take of affection.

Zodiac Associations

  • Variscite is linked to the zodiac signs Taurus and Gemini, blending the stable, sensual bull with the curious, communicative twins.
  • It is said to vibrate to the number 7 in numerology, a number of reflection, wisdom and the search for inner meaning.

Spiritual Growth

  • Variscite is known as a stone of wealth, prosperity and success, supporting an open and receptive attitude toward abundance.
  • It encourages a trusting, knowing outlook on life, helping the practitioner stay centered as their path unfolds.

Physical Healing

  • Variscite is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but it is traditionally regarded as a stone of healing that is said to aid recovery after surgery.
  • It is also said to help with minor injuries, sprains and bruises, allowing one to heal faster; these are traditional beliefs and are meant to complement, never replace, qualified medical care.

Care and handling

Variscite is fairly soft and can be scratched, so handle it with care. Clean it with a soft cloth and lukewarm water with mild soap, and dry it well. Avoid soaking, ultrasonic cleaners, steam, harsh chemicals, strong sunlight and heat, which can dull or dehydrate the stone. Store it apart from harder stones to prevent scratches.

Individual experiences with Variscite vary, and its effects are personal. Approach it with mindful trust, and let its gentle green support your journey toward prosperity and peace.