Stichtite
A variety of Hydrotalcite Group
What is Stichtite?
Stichtite is a massive purplish mineral that's often cut into cabochons and other ornamental pieces. It was discovered in 1910 in Tasmania and named after Robert Carl Sticht, the manager of a mine in the region. Today, stichtite is a collectible gemstone mainly used for carvings, figurines, and other spherical objects.
Uses & Applications
Stichtite makes for an attractive tumbled stone and is also sometimes carved into shapes for decorative use in items like paperweights. Despite its softness, it is also used as a gemstone, typically set into necklaces and earrings rather than placed in high-wear items like rings or bracelets.
Healing Properties
If you require rescuing, stichtite may be just what you need, and it may aid recovery along the way. It's said to connect with the higher heart chakras, protecting your body, spirit, and mind! Stichtite's vibrational energy is believed to stimulate a Kundalini awakening, thus leading to whole-body harmonization.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.516-1.544
- Birefringence
- 0.024-0.028
- Pleochroism
- Distinct
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Stichtite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Stichtite Localities Map
See where Stichtite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Associated Chakras
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Rose-pink to purple
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1.5 - 2
- Density
- 2.11 g/cm³
- Streak
- White to light lilac
- Luster
- Pearly, Greasy, Waxy
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mg6Cr3+2(OH)16[CO3] · 4H2O
- Elements
- C, Cr, H, Mg, O
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Stichtite FAQs
How do I identify Stichtite?
Stichtite can be identified by its hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale, Rose-pink to purple color, Pearly, Greasy, Waxy luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Stichtite?
Stichtite typically appears in Rose-pink to purple. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Stichtite?
Stichtite has a hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.