Stichtite

STICHTITE

HISTORY, NAME, LOCALITIES:  Stichtite was discovered in Tasmania, Australia, in 1891 and recognized as a new mineral species in 1914.  It is named in honor of Australian mine manager Robert Carl Sticht.  Stichtite is a rare mineral with only 14 known localities worldwide.  Notable sources are in Australia, South Africa, Morocco, New Zealand, Russia, Canada, and the United States (New York).

MINERALOGY, PROPERTIES, OCCURRENCE: Stichtite [basic hydrous magnesium chromium carbonate, Mg6Cr2(CO3)(OH)16•4H2O], pronounced STICHT-ite, crystallizes in the hexagonal system (trigonal subsystem) usually as crust-like aggregates or radiating micaceous plates in matrix.  It also occurs in massive or fibrous forms, bur rarely as macroscopic crystals.  It has a Mohs hardness of 1.5-2.0, a waxy or greasy luster, and a specific gravity of 2.2.  Its color, which ranges from lavender and lilac to light-violet, pink, and purple, is diagnostic.  Stichtite forms when chromium-rich, serpentine-group rocks undergo low-temperature, long-term metamorphism that alters primary chromium-containing minerals into stichtite.  Stichtite is usually found within a serpentine matrix.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES; LORE, USES: Modern metaphysical practitioners believe that stichtite aids in controlling grief and emotional distress and promotes rational thought.  Stichtite-in-serpentine, which offers the unusual contrast of purple stichtite against green serpentine, is a minor gemstone and has been fashioned into cabochons, beads, and small decorative objects.  Stichtite has no technological uses.

COLLECTORS’ PROPERTIES: Stichtite is collected for its rarity, purple colors, and matrix association with green serpentine.