Serpentine with Stichtite
Serpentine Subgroup / Stichtite Composite (Atlantisite / Stich-Serpentine) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Monoclinic (Serpentine) and Trigonal (Stichtite), typically occurring in massive, compact, or microcrystalline habits
Mineral Group
Silicates (Phyllosilicates) combined with Carbonates
Chemical Formula
(Mg,Fe3+)3Si2O5(OH)4 mixed with Mg6Cr2CO3(OH)16·4H2O
Formation Process
Metamorphic alteration of ultramafic rocks (serpentinization) where chromium-rich solutions interact with serpentine minerals under moderate temperatures and pressures.
About This Crystal
This is a polished, smooth, tumbled stone exhibiting a vibrant chartreuse to yellowish-green base color mottled with dark green to black patches and inclusions. The luster is waxy to greasy upon tumbling, and the stone is completely opaque with a dense, compact microcrystalline structure.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Chartreuse-green with dark green/black patches. Streak: White. Cleavage: Perfect in one direction for individual microscopic crystals, but absent in massive form. Fracture: Splintery to uneven, breaking smoothly when tumbled. Specific Gravity: 2.5 to 2.6. Tenacity: Tough in massive aggregates, somewhat brittle. Fluorescence: Inert to weak greenish under UV light.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.56 to 1.57. Birefringence: Weak (0.012 - 0.016). Pleochroism: Weak in individual grains. The stone is opaque and singly/doubly refractive only under microscopic thin section observation, showing no special optical phenomena like chatoyancy.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Stichtite-bearing serpentinite is notably found in Tasmania, Australia (Stichtite Hill), South Africa, and Canada. Most tumbled stones originate from Australia.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 3 to 5 (Serpentine component is typically around 3-4, while associated minerals may vary slightly). Toughness: Moderate to good due to its interlocking fibrous/massive habit, making it suitable for gentle jewelry wear like pendants or earrings if protected. Avoid heavy impact.
Care & Maintenance
Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemical detergents. Storage: Store separately in a fabric pouch to prevent scratching by harder stones (like quartz). Water sensitivity: Safe for brief exposure to water, but avoid prolonged soaking since it is a hydrated silicate.
Rarity & Value
Uncommon to Rare depending on the specific combination and intensity of colors. Value is driven by color saturation, absence of deep fractures, and aesthetic patterning. Commonly sold as tumbled stones or carvings in the low-to-moderate price range.
Special Characteristics
Notable for its striking natural color contrast between bright yellow-green serpentine and dark patches or purplish-pink stichtite (if present). Its unique mottled appearance makes each tumbled specimen completely one-of-a-kind.
Lore & History
Often marketed commercially under trade names like Atlantisite or stichtite-serpentine. In contemporary crystal healing and New Age practices, it is believed to combine the earth-healing energy of serpentine with the heart-centered compassion of stichtite, linked primarily to the heart and crown chakras. These properties are traditional belief systems and hold no scientific validation.