Is sugilite rare or common?

Sugilite is quite a rare gemstone, and it’s incredibly beautiful too. It was first discovered in 1944 by a Japanese petrologist named Ken-ichi Sugi, which is where it gets its unique name.

Is sugilite illegal?

It is not illegal to export minerals from South Africa. Sugilite comes from the Kalahari Manganese Fields (KMF) in South Africa, to my knowledge these mines are owned by a South African, not British.

Is there fake sugilite?

When shopping for sugilite, one of the most important things to know is that there is imitation sugilite on the market. Imitation sugilite is quite easy to mistake for the real thing. Typically, marble is used for this purpose, dyed purple to mimic the bold hues of sugilite.

How do you identify sugilite stones?

Sugilite can be identified by its distinctive dark-pink or purple color, which can be uniform or mottled, veined or layered. Sugilite usually occurs in massive form and crystals are extremely rare.

What is the best color of sugilite?

Sugilite is a rare mineral and a gemstone best known for its vibrant pink to purple colors. High-quality specimens are sought after by mineral collectors and lapidarists (people who cut and polish gems).

Is Blue sugilite rare?

Purple Sugilite is rare enough, however, “Richterite” or Blue Sugilite is found only 1/10 as often! This stone comes from the Kalahari region of South Africa. Its silky texture and beautiful color have made it a highly sought after gemstone.

What is sugilite good for?

Sugilite is believed to generate positive energy to protect against and overcome negative emotions and situations. Thought to be a nurturing gemstone, sugilite offers release from worries. It also promotes positive emotions to help relieve stress, establish peace of mind and emotional healing.

What is the difference between sugilite and charoite?

What is the difference between sugilite and charoite? Sugilite has usually consistent violet color though some pieces can contain slight patterning but it’s usually straight lines. Charoite is a little softer, 5 to 6 Mohs, but still too hard to be scratched by a fingernail.

How strong is sugilite?

Sugilite crystallizes in the hexagonal system with prismatic crystals. The crystals are rarely found and the form is usually massive. It has a Mohs hardness of 5.5–6.5 and a specific gravity of 2.75–2.80. It is mostly translucent.

Why is charoite so expensive?

All authentic charoite comes from Russia from the Chara River region. It’s the only place in the world where it’s found & its very rare, hence a hefty price. So price point can be a good indicator of a fake. The “Chinese Chaorite” started rearing its head big-time about 5 years ago.

How can you tell the difference between charoite and sugilite?

Sugilite has usually consistent violet color though some pieces can contain slight patterning but it’s usually straight lines. Some gel material is translucent and quite expensive. Charoite is a little softer, 5 to 6 Mohs, but still too hard to be scratched by a fingernail.