The two minerals are polymorphs , meaning many shapes, since the two minerals have the same chemistry but different atomic structures. Variscite is orthorhombic and metavariscite is monoclinic. Despite this difference the two are not easily distinguished as they rarely form even tiny crystals which might show their true symmetries. Both minerals form mostly crusts and nodules that are usually green. Metavariscite is almost always a pale green while variscite's color is somewhat more variable and when green is usually darker.
Color is light green.
Luster is vitreous or waxy. Specimens are translucent to opaque. Cleavage is not seen. Fracture is conchoidal, splintery, uneven. Streak is white.