metamorphic
Charoite
Charoite (Complex silicate mineral rock)
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale; Color: Lavender, lilac, to deep violet with swirling patterns; Luster: Vitreous, pearly, or silky; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Good; Specific Gravity: 2.54-2.58; Often exhibits distinct chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect).
- Hardness
- 5-6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Lavender, lilac, to deep violet with swirling patterns
- Luster
- Vitreous, pearly, or silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale; Color: Lavender, lilac, to deep violet with swirling patterns; Luster: Vitreous, pearly, or silky; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Good; Specific Gravity: 2.54-2.58; Often exhibits distinct chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect).
Formation & geological history
Formed through contact metamorphism and metasomatism where a potassium-rich syenite intrusion interacted with Mesozoic limestone formations, introducing unique chemical elements to create this complex silicate rock. It occurs exclusively in the Murun Massif in Siberia, Russia.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone and ornamental stone for lapidary work, including cabochons, beads, carvings, spheres, and inlay material in high-end jewelry and decorative objects.
Geological facts
Charoite is one of the rarest stones on Earth because it is found in only one location worldwide: near the Chara River in Yakutia, Siberia, Russia. It was first discovered in the 1940s but wasn't scientifically described or named until 1978.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its unmistakable swirling purple-to-lilac color bands, fibrous texture, and pearly luster, often accompanied by black aegirine, orange tinaksite, or greenish-grey microcline feldspar inclusions. It is only naturally found in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia), Russia.
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