Rectangular Russian charoite cabochon, between 20 and 28 mm long and 5 mm dome. The fibrous purple pattern with white tinaksite veins and black aegirine spots creates a unique texture in the mineral world – charoite only exists in one known deposit in Siberia.
Piece details
| Mineral |
Charoite (potassium, calcium, sodium, and barium silicate - unique family with no known analogues) |
| Dimensions |
20×19×5 mm (nr.37) or 28×21×5 mm (nr.38); tolerance ±0.5 mm |
| Shape and back |
Rectangular freeform, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
5-6 Mohs - we recommend closed bezel setting; suitable for pendants and everyday earrings |
| Origin |
Russia (Chara River, Sakha Republic, Siberia) – Material acquired from wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece type |
Selectable piece by variant number (two size options) |
This specific piece
The charoite in this lot shows the swirling fibrous pattern that distinguishes the best pieces: purple charoite fibers intertwine with white tinaksite needles and black aegirine spots. Under direct light, iridescence appears at certain angles, a result of the mineral's lamellar structure.
The rectangular shape takes advantage of the fiber orientation. The flat back and 5 mm dome facilitate bezel setting in a straight or rounded mount.
How charoite is formed
Charoite is a complex cyclosilicate discovered in 1947 and mineralogically described in 1978, formed by hydrothermal-metasomatic interaction of carbonate rocks with alkaline intrusions rich in sodium and potassium. The only known lapidary deposit is on the Chara River (Siberia). The fibrous structure comes from crystallization under high pressure; the purple color is due to divalent manganese in the crystal lattice. White inclusions are tinaksite and black ones are aegirine (sodium and iron pyroxene).
What mounting it works for
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Pendants with bezel in 925 silver - the purple contrasts with bright silver and white gold; the rectangular lines fit art deco settings.
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Rings for occasional wear - hardness 5-6 Mohs; closed bezel and avoid impacts on the edge.
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Wire wrap - the fibrous pattern visible on the back adds visual interest to the reverse.
Charoite in lapidary tradition
The name derives from the Chara River (in Russian, chary = charm). Described in 1978 by Vera Rogova, its sole deposit immediately made it a collector's item. In crystal tradition, it is associated with transformation and openness to new perspectives. Symbolic properties shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine charoite
Authentic charoite has a swirling fibrous pattern: purple fibers intertwined with white needles (tinaksite) and black spots (aegirine). The most common imitators are sugilite (no fibrous pattern), dyed purple jade, and purple fluorite (more transparent). Hardness 5-6 Mohs, lower than quartz.
Frequently asked questions
Is it natural charoite from Russia?
Yes, from the world's only deposit in the Chara River (Siberia). No detectable treatment. No gemological certification included.
Are only two sizes available?
Yes: variant nr.37 (20×19 mm) and nr.38 (28×21 mm). Each number corresponds to an individually photographed piece with its own pattern.
What type of jewelry is it most suitable for?
It stands out in pendants and earrings where the stone is the central element. For rings, occasional use with a closed bezel.
Is the fibrous pattern a defect?
No; it is the defining characteristic of charoite and the source of its lapidary value.
Are the dimensions exact?
Tolerance ±0.5 mm on any axis due to the polishing process.
How is charoite cared for?
Dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid acids and alkalis. Store separately from hard minerals. More in our care guide.
See also: all cabochons • handmade pendants.
