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Variscite

Variscite is a phosphate mineral that is often confused with turquoise.

Chemical Formula: H₄AlO₆P

Other names: Aluminium phosphate(V) dihydrate

Layman's explanation: Variscite is a phosphate mineral that was named in 1837 for Variscia, the ancient name of the Voigtland district in Germany where it was discovered. Variscite occurs in Utah, Nevada, Spain, Germany, Spain, Australia, and Brazil and is found near the surface of places where clay minerals and phosphate minerals occur together. The mineral is often confused with turquoise for its light green to emerald green color however, variscite is generally greener than turquoise. This phosphate is often cut into cabochons (carved figures) and used for jewelry or is used as a mineral specimen.

Keywords: phosphate, Voigtland

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