mineral

Sugilite

Sugilite (KNa2(Fe,Mn,Al)2Li3Si12O30)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, reddish-violet; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (milarite group); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.74-2.80.

Hardness: 5
Color: Purple, violet, reddish-violet
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, reddish-violet; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (milarite group); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.74-2.80.

Formation & geological history

Formed in stratiform manganese deposits (metasomatic process). First discovered in Japan in 1944, but most gem-grade material comes from deep underground in South Africa.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in high-end jewelry, carvings, and as a popular lapidary material for collectors.

Geological facts

Also known as Luvulite or Royal Azel. It was named after Ken-ichi Sugi, the Japanese petrologist who first described it. High-quality bright purple translucent specimens are known as 'Gel Sugilite' and are highly prized.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive purple color often mixed with mottled black, brown, or white matrix. Found in the Wessels Mine in the Kalahari Manganese Field of South Africa. Collectors should look for vibrant purple saturation and translucency.