Variscite is a mineral of hydrated aliminium phosphate. It is a relatively rare phosphate mineral. It is sometimes confused with turquoise but variscite is usually greener than turquoise.

Variscite is a secondary mineral formed by direct deposition from phosphate-bearing water that has reacted with aluminium-rich rocks in a near-surface-environment.

It occurs as fine-grained masses in nodules, cavity fillings, and crusts. Variscite often contains white veins of crandallite – a calcium aluminium phosphate mineral

Variscite is used as a semi-precious stone and for ornamental carvings. It was first described in 1837 and named after its locality Varescia – the historical name of the Vogtland in Germany. At one time, variscite was called Utahlite.

Materials which may be either variscite or turquoise have been marketed as “variquoise”. The color ranges found in variscite have made it a popular gem in recent years. Variscite from Nevada contains black spider web in the matrix and is often confused with green turquoise.

Notable sources are Utah, Germany, Australia, Poland, Spain and Brazil.