Variscite - a stone for protection from envious people and slander

FormulaAlPO4x2H2O
ImpurityFe, As
ColorYellowish or bluish green
Stroke colorWhite
ShineGlass to wax
TransparencyTransparent, translucent, translucent at the edges
Hardness4 — 5
CleavagePerfect
KinkUneven, smooth
Density2.4 - 2.6 g/cm³
singoniaRhombic
Refractive index1,55 — 1,59

Mining locations

The first large deposits of variscite were discovered on the American continent and in the German state of Saxony.

The main centers of stone mining today:

  • Australia - Queensland;
  • Europe – Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Spain;
  • America - Brazil;
  • Asia – Kazakhstan;
  • Russia – Yakutia.

The reserves of the states of California, Utah and Nevada are almost depleted.

Mining and stone processing

Variscite is not mined in industrial quantities. It is located in hard-to-reach places and is rarely clean. Therefore, it is not in demand by the jewelry industry. The richest deposits are in Germany, Poland, America and Australia.

Variscite is processed in the form of cabochons or round beads. When polished, the surface of the mineral becomes silky and shiny. Due to the softness of the material, it can be given any shape, which is used in the making of souvenirs.

Watch the video for an example of cabochon cutting:

Physico-chemical characteristics

From a chemist's point of view, variscite is a hydrous aluminum phosphate.

FormulaAlPO4x2H2O
ImpurityFe, As
ColorYellowish or bluish green
Stroke colorWhite
ShineGlass to wax
TransparencyTransparent, translucent, translucent at the edges
Hardness4 — 5
CleavagePerfect
KinkUneven, smooth
Density2.4 - 2.6 g/cm³
singoniaRhombic
Refractive index1,55 — 1,59

The delicate color range of the mineral is created by the variety of proportions of chlorine and iron.

Story. Origin

The mineral got its name from the Variscia region in Saxony (Germany). It was discovered there in 1837 and a description was made. Then they began to find this stone in other territories and gave different names:

  • California turquoise;
  • lucinite;
  • bolivaritis;
  • spherite;
  • chlorutealite.

Although it was described only in the 19th century , however, according to archaeologists, people began using variscite as jewelry a very long time ago. There are known ancient mines in what is now Spain.

Turquoise-like stones were considered a kind of currency. In southern European markets, variscite necklaces were used for trade exchange.

Variscite is a product of low-temperature hydrothermal processes. It is formed in caves with water sources, due to the ability of aluminum phosphate to form crystals in an aquatic environment at a certain temperature. As a result, bluish-greenish growths of spherical or other shapes appear, for example, on quartzites. Often, when such a growth forms, impurities enter it, forming veins, and sometimes wonderful patterns.

Varieties of variscite

Of the several varieties of the mineral, the most popular are the following:

  • Amatrix. A symbiosis (usually green shades) of stone with quartz or chalcedony. Popular collectible material.
  • Spherite. Round turquoise agglomerates with a tint of azure.
  • Chlorutealite. Intensely green, but not “noisy” specimens.
  • California turquoise . A stone of deep green color.
  • Utalit. The green mineral comes from Utah (USA).
  • Strengit. Rarely found pink variscite.
  • Bolivaritis. An archaic name for green stones with a yellow tint.

By color, stones of a soft blue range, the shade of which changes in different lighting, and red or purple variscite are also distinguished. Both types are sought after by jewelers and collectors, but the red variety is considered the rarest and more valuable.

Types and colors

Variscite is a stone with enormous variability in colors and shades. The color range varies from golden to blue-green, like a sea wave. In some specimens both of these colors occur simultaneously. Homogeneous specimens of the rock are often used as a substitute for turquoise.


Bright red variscite is a fairly rare find.

The gem can be either cloudy or transparent. This depends on the impurities of metals and oxides in the crystal structure of the gem. In turn, the color is determined by the chemical composition and conditions in which the crystal grows. There are several main types of mineral colors:

  • Spherite, an azure stone most similar to turquoise;
  • Chloryutarite, a green variety of variscite;
  • Purple mineral;
  • Blue crystal;
  • Golden-green variscite;
  • Pink stone;
  • The bright red gem is the rarest variety.

Typically, a variscite crystal grows over several years around quartz inclusions in the rock. The shape is usually irregular tetrahedral (tetrahedral) or octagonal. A fully formed crystal is called amatrix and has a beautiful, rich green color. But this requires extremely favorable conditions, which are rare in nature.

Where is the mineral used?

The areas of application of variscite are the sphere of beauty and collecting.

Jewelry

For almost a century and a half, variscite has been in demand as a companion or analogue of turquoise. They often coexist in jewelry. The color variety is also complemented by corals, green quartz, chrysocolla, and howlite.


Variscite decoration

However, large brands do not deal with minerals; this is a segment of single craftsmen. They create a full range of jewelry, framing the mineral with silver, jewelry alloy or cupronickel.

The greenish-gray material is often positioned as “imperial jasper.”

Needlework

There is a wide range of creative materials on the Internet: beads of different shapes, colors and sizes. It is easy to assemble jewelry from them with your own hands. Beads, bracelet, pendant, created according to your own design, will be exclusive.

In the description of an affordable assortment, it is sometimes indicated that this is a pressing or other imitation of variscite.

Collecting

Collectors are offered pristine agglomerates and tumbling variscite from different parts of the world. Mainly from the USA (Utah, Nevada), Russia and Spain.

Impact on the human psyche

So, variscite has a beneficial and calming effect on the human psyche. And when worn for a long time, it heals mental illnesses.

Moreover, its use is suitable not only for those who have real mental problems, but also for those who can call themselves only a little nervous.

Under the influence of the properties of variscite, a person becomes calmer, kinder and balanced.

By harmonizing the heart chakra, people are less likely to show negative emotions, do not get involved in quarrels, and become more tolerant of others. And this, in turn, harmonizes both the psyche and those who surround the owner of the stone.

The mineral gives its owner a feeling of satisfaction with life and circumstances. It is calming and peaceful. And even brings true happiness into life.

Stone cost

Russian online stores offer a wide range of variscite jewelry (price/RUB):

  • earrings (jewelry alloy) – 670;
  • beads (5–8 mm) – 7–20;
  • ring (jewelry alloy) – 890;
  • suspension – 210;
  • set (pendant + earrings, silver) – 2,540;
  • bracelet – 550;
  • bracelet (silver) – 1,350;
  • tumbling (USA, 2.5 – 4 cm) – 170–390.

These are the prices of original works. Manufacturers describe the stone as natural, but world prices are an order of magnitude (ten times) higher.

Jewelry with mineral

Variscite is a soft mineral, so beads and cabochons are made from it. Thanks to its healing and magical properties, the popularity of the gem is growing. For those who want to try on useful and beautiful decoration, a list of the estimated cost of “California turquoise” is provided.

Also read: Apatite – a stone of confidence and tranquility

  • They offer to buy a pendant made of natural stone for $17.5;
  • price for a string of beads – $30;
  • cost for beads made of variscite in combination with agate is $60;
  • an unprocessed mineral weighing 380 grams costs $45.

The jewelry mineral is quite rare, so it is of high value. More often, such specimens are found in private collections.

How to identify a fake

Variscite is not very common; the best examples almost always end up in collections.

Under the guise of a natural solid mineral, compressed raw materials, calcite or plastic, are often offered.

It's easy to spot a fake:

  • The main feature that helps distinguish imitation is the surface of the mineral. In variscite it has chaotically arranged veins.
  • Solid stone is translucent, pressed stone is opaque.
  • A toxic blue or cyan sample is almost certainly painted plastic. The color of natural stone is “calm”.
  • Price. A bracelet or necklace made of minerals can be bought on the world market for 70–200 euros (5–14 thousand rubles).
  • Hold the sample in your hands: rapid heating means plastic.


Earrings from Variscite
You will not find turquoise or jade among fake variscite - they are more expensive.

How to distinguish natural variscite stone from fake?

Natural variscites are rarely found on sale. The fact is that they can be easily painted and processed. For this reason, the gem is often passed off as other minerals. It should be noted that it is very difficult to distinguish a copy. In most cases, colored variscite is passed off as turquoise, jade, chrysoprase, calcite, chrysocolla and onyx.

To determine the authenticity of variscite, it is better to seek the help of specialists who, using special equipment and professional skills, will be able to distinguish a fake from the original.

Rules of care

Variscite is not particularly durable and is vulnerable to external influences.

You need to care for it carefully:

  • Store in a tightly closed box or other dark place.
  • Avoid overheating. The box should not be placed near heating appliances or other heat sources.
  • The mineral dissolves in acid, so only baby soap or other mild detergents are suitable for washing.
  • When cleaning, do not rub the gem too hard.
  • Wash jewelry or stones with water at room temperature.

The mineral, used as a magical artifact, actively absorbs energy directed at the owner. Therefore, in addition to physical cleansing, the stone requires energy cleansing. It is recommended to do it twice a month. The procedure is as follows: the gem is washed with running water, then briefly immersed in salted water. Rinse again under running water and leave to dry (preferably in a cool sun).

Caring for stone products

“Soft” gems are best preserved isolated from other minerals. For this purpose, cases with a soft inner surface, covers made of fleecy fabric and boxes lined with velvet are used. And it is also advisable to protect the gem from falls and impacts, since any mechanical impact on it will lead to damage to the stone, in the form of dents, cracks and chips.

The structure of the mineral “does not tolerate” overheating, which can lead to destruction. It is not advisable to dry stone products with a hot stream of air, for example using a hair dryer, or near heating devices. It is better to dry the jewelry naturally, at room temperature or by wiping it dry with a soft cloth.

Also read: Scolecite - a stone of peace and harmony

Due to chemical components, the gem may lose color and shine. You can clean jewelry with a gem using a soap solution and running water. It is not recommended to use abrasives and brushes with hard bristles, which are likely to leave marks on the surface.

Important! Try to protect stone products from prolonged exposure to sunlight. Gems react to the color of the sun, which affects the brightness of the shade.

Magic properties

Esotericists say: the magical properties of variscite will be useful to everyone. They operate on many levels.

Magical

For sorcerers, esotericists and other practicing magicians, variscite is important as a channel of access to past lives. They say that by performing the ritual in this way, you can understand the source of problems in your current life and try to eliminate them.

The most powerful magic is found in unframed and unprocessed gems.

Even an ordinary person can find out about his past. It is enough to meditate with a stone in your hand or on your body. Deep immersion can introduce you to layers of primordial knowledge and awaken talents.

Earthly

The properties of variscite are also useful in earthly affairs:

  1. Any use (in jewelry or as a talisman stone) guarantees the owner emotional stability and tranquility.
  2. The stone makes a person a philosopher, protecting him from deep feelings about shocks or conflicts. Instead, he will analyze them and learn a lesson or benefit.
  3. The mineral is indispensable in a problem team or home. He will not allow scandals or quarrels to even arise.
  4. The stone helps to achieve prosperity in the financial sphere. The person will find a paid job and open his own business. Or learn to spend money wisely, avoiding impulse purchases.

Even people who don’t believe in magic admit: the power of variscite is powerful and fast-acting.

Variscite is ideal for those who would like to change their life by adding new colors to it. But only in an honest way.

Restrictions

Variscite makes the owner wealthy faster than other minerals. But super-wealth or its acquisition through unjust means are excluded.

The stone develops kindness and empathy in the owner. If a person has different plans and is not ready to be an altruist, it is better to part with the mineral.

Talismans and amulets


Variscite bracelet
Sorcerers recommend using a bracelet-amulet as a talisman. It is believed that he grasps the person's wrist and enfolds him in his embrace. A person will pacify his pride, harshness and selfishness towards others.

Variscite earrings will help you think soberly and make rational decisions in any situation.

The pendant will make the owner kinder and more sensitive to the problems of loved ones.

According to practicing magicians, the energy of variscite is enough to create a positive atmosphere in the entire apartment. To do this, animal figures made of mineral are placed in a prominent place. Any decorative items with variscite inserts are also suitable.

All inhabitants of the home will feel confident and calm. Will be able to make the right decisions in difficult situations. An atmosphere of peace and goodwill will appear in the family.

Therapeutic effect

Lithotherapists have identified the following healing properties of the mineral:

  1. Opportunity number one is the healing of mental illness. The mineral has a beneficial effect on the state of the central nervous system: it stabilizes and pacifies. Relieves extreme manifestations: psychoses, neuroses. Irritability, tearfulness, and suspiciousness disappear. The consequences of stress, tense or conflict situations are neutralized. The stone brings you out of depression and helps you enjoy life again.
  2. Wearing an amulet with a stone relieves phobias of various natures: darkness, confined spaces, heights. This is especially useful for children.

It is recommended to wear a stone if unmotivated anxiety persists.

  1. The stone strengthens sleep and puts a barrier to nightmares.
  2. Helps to recover after significant physical exertion or chronic fatigue.
  3. Prevents emotional burnout at work.
  4. Normalizes the condition of the reproductive system, improving libido and the overall quality of intimate life. Helps you get pregnant.
  5. A talisman with a mineral is recommended to be worn by children and adults suffering from enuresis.


Beads from Variscite
Treatment of almost all “nervous” diseases is considered the main advantage of Variscite, since this directly affects the general physical well-being of a person.

Note

Using the mineral as a talisman for the purpose of protection or for spiritual maturation leads to the fact that variscite is filled with alien energy, which affects the properties of the magical artifact. You can eliminate unwanted reserves in the amulet in a simple and effective way, using salted water.

  • First, the gem is washed under running water;
  • then drops into a glass with salted solution;
  • Finally, rinse with clean tap water;
  • dry in the shade at room temperature.

Regular cleaning will extend the life of the stone and preserve its beauty.

5 / 5 ( 1 voice )

Variscite and Zodiac

Astrologers are unanimous: according to the horoscope, the favorite mineral is the Fire element. It is suitable for Aries, Leo, Sagittarius , who want to establish contacts with the right people and establish profitable connections.

The stone will help, but it will “force” you to moderate your own selfishness and arrogance.

Table of compatibility of variscite with zodiac signs (“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated).

Zodiac signCompatibility
Aries+++
Taurus+
Twins+
Cancer
a lion+++
Virgo+
Scales+
Scorpion+
Sagittarius+++
Capricorn+
Aquarius+
Fish

Pisces and Cancers should be careful when contacting the stone. Otherwise, either they will tire you with their caring, or everyone who is not too lazy will sit on their neck.

For other zodiac signs, variscite is more of a decoration.

Meaning of zodiac signs

The impact of natural material on humans is ambiguous. This mechanism is based on the signs of the Zodiac - the astrological characteristics of each person.

When choosing a piece of jewelry for a specific person, you should always ask how the selected stone interacts with a characteristic area of ​​the zodiac belt, i.e. what will be the result of its influence.

Variscite is recommended to be worn by people born under the signs of Sagittarius, Leo, and Aries. It is for them that the stone suppresses selfish tendencies, softens self-confidence and ambition. The character of the owners of the stone acquires philanthropy and altruism.

But the stone will not bring beneficial qualities to fish. Their natural softness and gullibility are an undesirable field of influence for the energy of such a stone.

Other zodiac signs can also turn to the beauty and originality of the mineral by decorating themselves with products made from it. A person himself can feel the invisible connection that exists between him and this natural beauty.

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