Arkansas Variscite, Montgomery County, Arkansas

Variscite, Montgomery County, AR, U.S.A.

Commonly occurs in conjunction with Wavellite.  Hardness 3.5-4.5.  An aluminum phosphate mineral.  Its color is imparted by small traces of vanadium -+3 green, +4 blue, +5 yellow.  The absence of vanadium will leave the variscite white or colorless (the same is true with Wavellite).  The presence of iron can add reds to the color range.

Metaphysical:  Said to be a soothing stone.  Eases fear, tension, anxiety, worry, and impatience.  Relieves stress and depression, and can give courage and inner strength, engendering self-reliance.  Helps calm and still the mind, which makes it an excellent stone for meditation.

Photo taken in Arkansas October 3, 2016