Gemological and gemological evaluation of Variscite lead and zinc mine in Kushk Bafgh

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Payam Noor University - Department of Geology - Faculty of Sciences

10.22067/gemiran.2026.48510
Abstract
The Kushak lead and zinc deposit is located within the Esfordi Formation, which consists of a series of volcanic-sedimentary sequences of Infracambrian age. Variscite is observed as cross-veins within the pyrite ore of the Kushak deposit, in both open-pit and underground mines. Based on XRD and electron microscopy studies, it was determined that the formula of this mineral is AlPO4.2H2O. This mineral is formed by the action of phosphate-containing oxidant waters on aluminum-bearing rocks, especially shales.

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  • Receive Date 21 July 2026
  • Publish Date 22 June 2026