Charoite
Image: derivative work: MichaelFrey (talk) Czaroit_płytka,_Rosja.jpg: Kluka (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameCharoite
Chemical FormulaK(Ca,Na)2Si4O10(OH,F)·H2O
Mohs Hardness5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {110}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.54
Colorspurple, lilac, violet, brown, white
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityMurun Massif, Sakha Republic, Russia
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralstinaksite, aegirine, microcline, fedrite, frankamenite
Rarityrare
Description
This sample displays a vibrant purple to lilac color with characteristic swirling, fibrous patterns. Lighter, possibly greenish-white inclusions are visible within the purple matrix, adding to its distinctive appearance.
Geological Context
Charoite is a rare mineral formed in metasomatized limestone adjacent to an alkaline syenite intrusion. It is found exclusively in the Murun Massif, where it occurs in a unique potassium-rich environment.
