Charoite

Charoite is a rare, bright, firey purple stone with white, gray and black veining. Charoite is formed in a swirling pattern of interlocking crystals. The best polished Charoite material has great chatoyancy or reflection of light. It may also be called Charoitite.

It formed from alteration of limestones by the close presences of an alkali-rich nephline syenite intrusion. The heat, pressure and more importantly, the infusion of unique chemicals into the rock is responsible for the transformation into Charoite. Charoite rock is made up of the actual Charoite mineral, but may also include more than 30 different mineral species. Most of them are minute amounts, but the more prominent ones account for its variations in color and patterns. Charoite has a hardness of about 6 on the Moh's scale.

The Russians first discovered Charoite in 1947, but it was not identified until 1978. Charoite is found in only one location, in Siberia, Russia. The area where is is found is called the Sirenevy Kamen deposit. Charoite is believed to be at least 500 million years old! Charoite is named after the nearby Charo River. This part of Russia is known for its forbidding climate and terrain and as a traditional place of exile for political prisoners. Though the material is plentiful the hard rock mining is difficult and the remote area makes mining very expensive. To reach the area one must travel for days by water and then hike in.

Metaphysical Properties: Put Charoite beneath your pillow, as it is said to dispel bad dreams and negativity. It can help strengthen the body and energy fields.

OakRocks has been in the rock and mineral business for 30 years. We are a great source for Charoite and carry a selection Charoite spheres, and cabochons.

Look for Charoite in our store!