[1][2] The mushroom cap is 3–12 cm (1.2–4.7 in) wide, grayish blue then yellow-brown, convex to flat, perhaps with a mild umbo.

[3] The gills are adnate or adnexed, grayish blue turning brown as the spores mature.

[3] The stalk is 5–15 cm (2–6 in) tall and 1–2 cm wide, equal or tapered, white to yellow, with whitish partial veil on the upper stalk (becoming brown with the spores).

[3] It was reported as edible as recently as 1991, but European field guides consider it poisonous.

Similar species include and Cortinarius cliduchus and C.