metamorphic
Charoite
K(Ca,Na)2Si4O10(OH,F)·H2O
Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs); Color: Violet, lilac, or purple with swirling patterns; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Good in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.54–2.58
- Hardness
- 5-6 (Mohs)
- Color
- Violet, lilac, or purple with swirling patterns
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs); Color: Violet, lilac, or purple with swirling patterns; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Good in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.54–2.58
Formation & geological history
Formed through the contact metamorphism of limestone by syenite intrusions. It is found in rocks of the Mesoproterozoic Era, approximately 145 million to 1.6 billion years old (the intrusion itself is younger, Cretaceous era).
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a sought-after mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Charoite is extremely rare because it is found only in one location in the world: the Chary River area in the Sakha Republic, Siberia, Russia. It was not officially described by geologists until 1978.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unique 'chatoyant' or pearly swirling violet patterns that often look like oil painting brushstrokes. It is almost always found in massive form rather than distinct crystals. Common associates include orange tinaksite and black aegirine.
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