Charoite
Charoite (IMA-approved mineral name) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Rare Collector Mineral
Crystal System
Monoclinic; crystals are extremely rare, typically occurring in massive, fibrous, or swirling radial aggregates.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Subgroup: Inosilicates / Phyllosilicates structure complex)
Chemical Formula
(K,Sr,Ba,Ca)15-16(Na,Ca)8(Mg,Fe2+)2(Si,Al)4Si24O67(OH,F)4 · nH2O
Formation Process
Metasomatic. It forms from the alteration of limestone/dolomite by the intrusion of alkali-rich syenites under high pressure and temperature conditions (contact metamorphism).
About This Crystal
A striking purple to violet mineral with a distinct swirling, fibrous, or 'feather-like' pattern. It is opaque to translucent with a vitreous to pearly or silky luster, often containing black Aegirine or orange Tinaksite inclusions.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Bright lavender to deep violet/purple. Streak: White. Cleavage: Distinct in three directions (hard to see in massive form). Fracture: Conchoidal to splintery. Specific Gravity: 2.54 - 2.58. Fluorescence: Often shows weak red or orange under UV light.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.550 - 1.559. Birefringence: 0.009. Pleochroism: Weak to Moderate. Often exhibits a unique silky chatoyancy (shimmer) due to its fibrous structure.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Murun Massif (Chary River area), Sakha Republic (Yakutia), Siberia, Russia. This is the only known locality in the world.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 5 to 6. Toughness: Fair to Good (though somewhat brittle). Wearability: Suitable for pendants/earrings; needs protection in rings.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and harsh chemicals. Store separately from harder gemstones like quartz or topaz to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Very Rare. Limited to a single geographic location. Value is determined by color intensity, the presence of distinct silky swirls, and the absence of dull grey or black patches.
Special Characteristics
Feathery chatoyancy (pearlescent shimmer) and unique swirling patterns. It is one of the few minerals that naturally occurs in this specific shade of vivid purple in massive form.
Lore & History
Discovered in the 1940s but only described scientifically in 1978. Named after the Chara River. In traditional lore, it is known as a 'Stone of Transformation' and is associated with the Crown and Third Eye chakras.