Charoite
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameCharoite
Chemical Formula(K,Na)₅(Ca,Ba,Sr)₄Si₈O₂₀(OH,F)·nH₂O
Mohs Hardness5.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagegood in one direction
Fractureuneven to splintery
Specific Gravity2.65
Colorspurple, lavender, white, black
Transparencytranslucent to opaque
Type LocalityMurunskii Massif, Chara and Tokko Rivers Confluence, Aldan Shield, Saha Republic (Sakha Republic; Yakutia), Eastern-Siberian Region, Russia
Mineral Groupsilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralstinaksite, canasite, microcline, aegirine
Rarityrare
Description
This specimen displays vibrant purple and lavender hues with swirling, fibrous textures, interspersed with irregular dark grey to black inclusions and some lighter, possibly white or pale lilac areas.
Geological Context
Charoite forms in unique metasomatic conditions within alkaline igneous rocks, specifically in the Murunskii Massif, where syenites and other alkaline rocks interact with limestone, leading to its formation through complex chemical reactions.
