Charoite (rare)

Item Description

Charoite is a very rare inosilicate mineral which was first reported from near the Chara River in Eastern Siberia, Russia, which is where the species gets its name. The material is always massive, but the durability and beautiful color make it a very desirable and valued stone in the lapidary world. The vivid purple color seen in the material is due to manganese content, while the manganese deficient Charoite will have more of a grey-white hue. These stones are almost always opaque, but the color is what draws collectors. This material is relatively new to the market as it was only introduced to the west in 1978. Typically, Charoite has multicolor banding and swirling which mixes purple and white streaks, and this "Round Cabochon" cut stone is a great example of said material. The stone is actually NOT completely opaque, as there are a few thin zones that actually pass light when it is backlit. A fine, rare and colorful gem for any collection. Priced at $1418.55 high retail