Charoite
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Mineral NameCharoite
Chemical FormulaK(Ca,Na)₂Si₄O₁₀(OH,F)·H₂O
Mohs Hardness5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagegood in one direction
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity2.65
Colorspurple, lilac, violet, black, brown, white
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityVostochnyi Mine, Murun-Massif, Yakutia, Russia
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralsaegirine, fedorite, tinaksite, microcline
Rarityvery-rare
Description
This specimen features a vibrant purple charoite with a distinctive fibrous, swirling texture. Prominently embedded within the purple matrix are radiating black aggregates of aegirine and some lighter brownish-tan, elongated crystals, likely fedorite.
Geological Context
Charoite is a rare mineral formed by metasomatic processes in alkaline syenite intrusions, where alkaline fluids interact with and alter carbonate rocks. Its unique formation conditions restrict its occurrence to the Murun Massif in Siberia, Russia.
