Sugilite Chips

Description

Our sugilite chips are a unique way to add a bright pop of color into any room. These gorgeous chips are tumbled. We only have a single 100g lot. This interesting lot is on the pink side of the natural sugilite coloration. They may look similar to rhodonite or even dyed, but if you look closely you will see that these do not have the same pattern as rhodonite and the common traits of dyed stones are not present. Get this incredible lot before it is gone!

Grain Size: See image, pebble

One of our favorite suggestions for using sugilite chips in gemstone décor is to add them to a crystal or glass plate, bowl, vase, or other container. You can layer them or use them to surround figurines or other display pieces, too. With all of the colors and variation available in gemstone chips, there is almost always a complementary or accent color that will suit your personal style, Southwestern or otherwise.

These are the exact stones you will receive. However, the entire lot is not shown in the pictures. These pictures show only a sampling of the full lot.

Learn About Sugilite

Sugilite, a relatively rare cyclosilicate mineral in the osumilite group, is known for its captivating color palette, ranging from soft pink to deep purple, with purple being the most common. Its chemical composition is complex, involving potassium, sodium, lithium, iron, manganese, and silicon.

The primary source of sugilite is the Wessels Mine in South Africa, which produces the majority of the world’s supply. Other notable sources include Japan, Canada, India, and the United States, although in smaller quantities.

A Bit About Sugilite Color Variation

The variation in color within sugilite is primarily influenced by the presence of different elements and their concentrations. Iron, in particular, plays a significant role in determining the intensity of the purple hue. The specific geological conditions during its formation also contribute to the diverse range of colors observed in sugilite.

The pinker coloration in sugilite can be attributed to the presence of manganese. Manganese is a key element in this form of sugilite’s chemical composition, and its concentration can significantly influence the color. Higher concentrations of manganese tend to produce a more fuchsia-like color. Additionally, the oxidation state of manganese can also affect the color. Different oxidation states can produce different color variations within the purple-pink spectrum.

The interplay of iron and manganese within the sugilite crystal structure is primarily responsible for its diverse color range. Iron tends to impart a deeper, more intense purple hue, while manganese contributes to a lighter, pinker color. You can learn more about a form of sugilite that is high in which manganese takes the place of iron in its chemical composition here.

The specific concentration of these elements, as well as other factors like impurities and crystal structure, can further influence the final color of a particular sugilite specimen.

If you love colors that pop, check out this UV reactive heart.

Please Note:

1. Sizes and weights are approximate. Dimension sizes can vary based on the way the rock is formed. We hand measure our pieces on the longest side. Please see the pictures in the listing.
2. The colors may vary due to monitor and lighting differences.
3. Please use your own judgment when allowing children to handle.
4. Not suggested for use in animal habitats or fish tanks.