Stichtite · Rectangular Cabochons

5 unique rectangular Tasmanian stichtite cabochons (19-25 mm). Intense mauve-violet with green serpentine veins. Acquired from a lapidary wholesale market; each piece is numbered.

Item Details

About This Specific Piece

These pieces display the characteristic combination of stichtite: intense mauve with green serpentine veins or spots — commercially known as "atlantisite." The rectangular format makes them easy to use in straight bezels or modular settings. The very low hardness (1.5-2 Mohs) requires a setting that protects the entire exposed surface; without a setting, stichtite scratches easily.

Best For Which Setting

• High closed bezel in 925 silver — Essential: the bezel must fully cover the perimeter edge due to the 1.5-2 Mohs hardness.
• Geometric rectangular pendants — The clean-lined rectangular format is ideal for statement pendant designs.
• Not recommended for daily wear rings — The low hardness makes it highly susceptible to everyday scratches.

Stichtite in Lapidary Tradition

Stichtite was discovered in 1910 in Dundas, Tasmania, and named after Robert Carl Sticht, manager of the Mount Lyell copper mines. It is a relatively rare mineral: lapidary-grade deposits are mainly limited to Tasmania and South Africa. Its intense mauve-violet color is due to the presence of chromium in its crystal structure. "Atlantisite" is the commercial name for its combination with green serpentine.

In crystal tradition, stichtite is associated with compassion and equanimity — the mineral of the patient artisan, of one who works without haste.

The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is atlantisite?

Atlantisite is the commercial name for the combination of mauve stichtite with green serpentine. It is not an independent mineral — it is the market designation for this aesthetic mixture that co-exists in the same rock.

Is it very fragile?

With a hardness of 1.5-2 Mohs (similar to talc), it is very soft. A high bezel that protects the entire perimeter is essential. Not suitable for use without a setting.

Is it treated?

No detectable treatment. The mauve color is natural to the mineral. No formal gemological certification.

Are the pieces calibrated?

No. Freeform shapes with approximate dimensions (±0.5 mm). Each variation is unique and numbered.

How do I care for it?

Only a soft, dry cloth. Avoid prolonged water exposure, abrasives, and contact with hard surfaces. See our care guide.

See also: cabochon collection.