Variscite is a relatively rare phosphate mineral that is named for Variscia, the medieval name of Vogtland, Germany. It is sometimes confused with turquoise but is usually greener. Variscite's bright color comes from traces of chromium. It has a waxy luster and takes a fine polish. This is a relatively soft stone that can be damaged by acids, heat and rough handling. The safest way to clean it is with warm, soapy water. Other names for varscite include Amatrice, Amatrix, Barrandite, Bolivarite, California Turquoise, Lucinite, Nevada Turquoise, Sabalite, Utah Turquoise, Utahlite and Variquoise.
The French word for variscite is variquoise. In the marketplace, variquoise sometimes means variscite, but sometimes refers to a unique combination of variscite and turquoise found in Utah and Nevada.
Variscite is believed to balance the central nervous system and ease depression, fear, worry, anxiety and impatience. Many feel it helps them remember past lives and build virtue, self-reliance, moral courage and success. Physically, it is said to help with skin and blood-vessel elasticity, as well as impotence. Variscite is found in the U.S.A. (Utah and Nevada), Australia, Germany and Brazil.