Among the precious and semiprecious stones, sugilite is one of the most striking specimens on the planet. For this reason, we invite you to analyze all its characteristics, properties and benefits. In this way, you will enjoy one of the most outstanding gems of nature to the fullest.
The sugilite mineral consists of a hydrated lithium, sodium and potassium silicate mineral that belongs to the Osumilite group. It is characterized because it presents inclusions of sodium, potassium, lithium and manganese. In fact it is the manganese that gives it its beautiful purple to pink color.
In certain circumstances, it can be found together with other minerals, such as albite, apatiteand the zircon ore.
Over time, different cultures have attributed numerous properties to it. Obviously, being a very attractive stone, the sight is used for different purposes in jewelry. Regardless of the type of use to which this mineral is destined, It is one of the most valuable on earth.
Mineralogical characteristics
As a general rule, luvulite or sugilite, as it is also known, appears in manganese metamorphic deposits. The formation is massive or granular, although it can also be seen in minute prismatic crystals. It belongs to the group of silicates and cyclosilicates, with colors pink, yellow, purple and brown.
It is part of the hexagonal crystal system, with massive crystal habit and subconoidal fracture. Its level of hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 5.5 to 6.5, with poor exfoliation. The luster is vitreous, the streak white, and goes from translucent to opaque.
In closing, your refractive index is between 1.60 and 1.61.
| sugilite mineral | Properties and characteristics |
|---|---|
| chemical classification | silicate, cyclosilicate |
| Color | Gem-quality specimens are pink to reddish-purple to purple in color. Impure specimens are usually yellow, brown, purplish-brown, grayish-purple, or black. |
| Stripe | White |
| Gloss | Dull, waxy, vitreous |
| diaphanousness | Usually translucent, sometimes opaque |
| cleavage | Poor to indistinct, rarely observed. Usually occurs in massive granular aggregates. |
| Mohs hardness | 5.5 to 6.5 |
| specific gravity | 2.7 to 2.8, varying with impurities |
| diagnostic properties | Color, gloss, specific gravity. Can be difficult to identify without advanced methods. |
| Chemical composition | KNatwo(Fe, Mn, Al)twoLi3Yes12EITHER30 |
| crystalline system | Hexagonal |
Geological occurrence and genesis
The sugilite stone It does not occur in many places in the world, which is why it is considered as a rare gem in nature. In fact it is economically mined in stratiform manganese deposits in South Africa, moreover, it appears from time to time as a primary mineral in igneous rocks and as a secondary mineral in marbles.
Important deposits
It is not a mineral as frequent as other products of nature. The largest mining areas of exploitation are located in Canada, South Africa, Japan, Russia, Italy and India.
Sugilite Gemstone Meaning
The name of the stone comes from a Japanese petrologist who received the name of ken-ichi-sugi. The stone was discovered in 1944, although it was not until 1976 that it began to be recognized as a mineral.
Regarding its esoteric meaning, the sugilite stone is considered the stone representative of love spiritual and wisdom. Obviously, these statements are not verified by mineralogical experts or professionals. Actually, they are just beliefs attributed to the gem over the years.
Sugilite stone properties
It is said that the sugilite stone accompanies humans on spiritual quests, helping to find answers to their questions. It is also considered a healing stone to level spiritual, mental and bodily. It is thought that it has a transmuting force and that it promotes positivism.
On the other hand, it is a gem associated with alternative medicine in different areas of the body. For example, it is used to alleviate Headaches, as in the blood cleansing. In theory, removes toxins and power the system immunological.
Sugilite Stone Uses
Pieces with prominent color are used as gemstones. Excellent specimens, especially specimens with well-formed crystals, are of interest to mineral collectors and may be more valuable than rough gems.
The stone is used as meditation talisman, like love amulet. However, its most practical use is in the jewelry sector, where it is used to make different garments. Therefore, you have the possibility to buy rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, among others.
Likewise, it is likely that you will see numerous ornamental decoration objects made with this material. Of course, it also becomes an excellent collector’s item. If you like the precious and semi-precious stones, you can add the luvulite to your showcase
In short, this is one of the most beautiful gems of nature and with the highest value in the market. Do not wait any longer and visit the jewelry store to get your own collector’s item. You will not regret it.