Variscite, Wood, Horn, and Black Onyx Adjustable Leather Necklace Handmade by Chris Hay

The variscite, bone, wood, horn, and black onyx pendant is 2.85 inches in length on natural black polished round leather. The variscite bead is 13 by 17 mm and the onyx beads are 8 by 26 mm. The necklace is adjustable from 18 inches to 34 inches by sliding the knots. Variscite is a hydrated aluminium phosphate mineral. It is a relatively rare phosphate mineral. It is sometimes confused with turquoise; however, variscite is usually greener in color. The green color results from the presence of small amounts of chromium. Variscite is more rare than turquoise. It was first described in 1837 and named for the locality of Variscia, the historical name of the Vogtland, in Germany. At one time, variscite was called Utahlite. At times, materials which may be turquoise or may be variscite have been marketed as "variquoise". Appreciation of the color ranges typically found in variscite have made it a popular gem in recent years.