Stichtite Teardrop Cabochons

Teardrop-shaped stichtite cabochon, a very rare mineral from Tasmania (Australia) with purple, pink, and violet veins generated by chromium ions. Available in 5 sizes, from 22 to 35 mm in length. Selected from a wholesale lapidary market.

Item details

This particular piece

The color of stichtite is not uniform within the same cabochon: saturated mauve, fuchsia pink, lavender, and slate gray coexist, sometimes with patches of green serpentinite reminiscent of the Earth's crust seen from within. Each size cuts a different area of the vein, so the chromatic character varies from piece to piece.

The teardrop shape was chosen to maximize the visible surface of clean color, avoiding the inclusion of too much serpentinite matrix on the face. The elongated silhouette is especially balanced in central pendants and chandelier earrings.

How stichtite's color is formed

Stichtite is a hydrated magnesium chromium carbonate (Mg₆Cr₂(CO₃)(OH)₁₆·4H₂O) that crystallizes on ultramafic serpentinite veins. The intense purplish-pink color comes from the Cr³⁺ ions in its structure, the same ion that colors ruby red and emerald green. In Tasmania, it formed during the serpentinization of upper mantle rocks about 500 million years ago.

For which setting it works

• Closed bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — the most robust technical choice for a hardness of 1.5–2: the bezel must cover the entire perimeter and flanks to prevent scratches during daily use.
• Pendants with a silver drop setting — the teardrop shape fits into pre-made drop settings; the piece remains centered without risk of twisting and the purple dominates the visual reading.
• Wire wrap — a valid alternative if the wire generously wraps the flanks without pressing on the face. Use 0.4–0.6 mm silver wire and weave carefully to avoid marking the surface.

Stichtite in lapidary tradition

Stichtite was first described in 1910 from specimens from the Mount Lyell mine in Queenstown (Tasmania).

In crystal tradition, stichtite is associated with compassion and empathetic communication, qualities that many attribute to its warm tones and exceptional tactile texture.

The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.

How to recognize genuine stichtite

Genuine stichtite is distinguished from plastic imitations by its specific gravity (2.1–2.2 g/cm³, noticeably heavier than plastic) and by the presence of green or gray serpentinite matrix in unpolished areas. Under 10× magnification, the polished surface shows lamellar microfractures characteristic of the mineral.

Frequently asked questions

Where does this stichtite come from?

From Tasmania, Australia, the most recognized origin of the mineral. Most of the lapidary quality stichtite available on the world market comes from this island. The material was acquired from a wholesale lapidary market; the piece does not include an independent certificate of origin.

What setting is suitable for a mineral with a hardness of 1.5–2?

We recommend a full closed bezel setting in 925 silver or another metal. With a hardness of 1.5–2 Mohs, stichtite will scratch with a fingernail. Claw or prong settings leave exposed edges that will accumulate scratches with use. The jeweler decides the final technique, but a high-walled bezel is the most technically robust solution.

Has this piece been treated?

No detectable treatment. No apparent dyeing or stabilization. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.

See more rare minerals in our cabochon collection.