Charoite

Q: What is Charoite?

La charoíta es un filosilicato de composición compleja, único en el mundo tanto por su rara composición química como por su localización geográfica exclusiva: se extrae únicamente en la región del río Chara, en Siberia Oriental (Rusia), de donde toma su nombre. Se presenta en masas compactas de un l

Q: What is the hardness of Charoite?

Charoite has a Mohs hardness of 5.0 to 6.0, making it moderate for use in jewelry.

Q: How much does Charoite cost?

Charoite falls into the Budget (< $50/ct) price range. Prices vary based on color, clarity, cut, and origin.

Q: What is the crystal system of Charoite?

Charoite belongs to the Monoclinic crystal system.

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Found only along the Charo River in the Sakha Republic of Siberia, its sole commercial source anywhere, charoite is a rare silicate whose swirling lavender-to-purple patterns make every polished piece unique. A fibrous, interlocking crystal growth produces its violet, lilac, and white swirls, and at 5.0 to 6.0 on the Mohs scale in the monoclinic system it is soft enough that cabochons and carvings suit it best. It was discovered in 1978 and named for the river where it occurs. Despite its rarity, charoite remains a budget-tier semi-precious stone, and its instantly recognizable appearance has made it a favorite among collectors and jewelry designers alike.

Physical & Optical Properties

Category Semi-Precious Gems

Mohs Hardness 5,0 – 6,0

Specific Gravity 2,54 – 2,78

Refractive Index 1,545 – 1,56

Crystal System Monoclinic

Luster Vitreous,Silky

Cleavage Fair

Fracture Conchoidal

Color various

Birefringence 0,009

Pleochroism Nil

Mohs Hardness

Mohs Hardness: 5,0 – 6,0

1 Soft10 Hard

Crystal System

Value & Market

Price Tier Budget (< $50/ct)

Where to Buy Charoite

Blue Nile Fine jewelry retailer

James Allen Gemstone jewelry

Brilliant Earth Ethically sourced gems

Amazon Wide selection

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About Charoite

La charoíta es un filosilicato de composición compleja, único en el mundo tanto por su rara composición química como por su localización geográfica exclusiva: se extrae únicamente en la región del río Chara, en Siberia Oriental (Rusia), de donde toma su nombre. Se presenta en masas compactas de un llamativo color violeta a lila, con un patrón swirly (en espiral) característico de textura sedosa, producido por el entrelazado de fibras de mineral. Descubierta en la década de 1940, fue dada a conocer internacionalmente en 1978. Es muy popular en joyería y objetos decorativos, especialmente en Rusia, por su color único e irrepetible.