Stichtite is a mineral with a hardness of 2 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness [?]. These Trigonally structured gems are made of magnesium chromium carbonate hydroxide, their full chemical compound being .

Stichtite is a purplish to pink mineral many times found mixed with green serpentine. Its a hydrated magnesium chromium carbonate hydroxide mineral.

With a hardness of 1.5 to 2 on the Mohs scale, stichtite is very soft and used mainly in carvings and ornamental pieces like necklaces or rings. Due to its softness rings and necklaces combine silver or tin to hold the smoothed down pieces in place.

Why is Stichtite almost always found in Serpentine?

Stichtite typically forms within serpentine rock during metamorphic processes. This association creates the distinctive purple and green patterns that make it popular for ornamental use. Pure stichtite specimens are extremely rare.

What makes Tasmanian Stichtite special?

Tasmania's Dundas deposits produce the world's finest stichtite specimens, showing intense purple color in green serpentine matrix. These specimens set the quality standard and are increasingly rare as historic mines deplete.

Does Stichtite's color fade?

The vibrant purple color can fade with prolonged exposure to strong light. Quality specimens should be stored away from direct sunlight and bright display lights. Once faded, the color cannot be restored.

Why do some pieces show different purple intensities?

Color intensity varies with chromium content and crystal formation conditions. The most valued specimens show deep, even purple coloration. Some pieces may show lighter lavender to deep royal purple variations.

How can I tell genuine Stichtite from imitations?

Real stichtite has a distinctive hardness (1.5-2), shows natural color variations, and always occurs with serpentine. The purple color should appear natural and slightly mottled, never uniform or artificially bright.

Is South African Stichtite different?

South African stichtite tends to show more scattered, smaller purple patches compared to the larger, more concentrated areas in Tasmanian material. Both sources can produce collection-quality specimens.

What determines Stichtite's value?

Value depends on color intensity, pattern aesthetics, and size of purple areas. Specimens showing dramatic contrast between purple stichtite and green serpentine command premium prices. Historical Tasmanian pieces are particularly valued.

The specific gravity [?] for Stichtite is 2.16, its refractive index [?] is 1.55, and its double refraction [?] is None.

History

Discovered in Tasmania, Australia, in 1910, stichtite was then named after Robert Carl Sticht a mine manager and well known metallurgist.

Industrial Usages

Stichtite is used in decorative objects and is valued for its unique color combination with serpentine. Not really an industrial mineral, but not scarce so used for lower end jewelry.