What on Earth is Charoite?

Charoite is a violet-to-lilac silicate mineral found in just one place on Earth, the Murun complex in Siberia, Russia. Its swirling, silky patterns make it a favourite for gemstone beads and cabochons, and it is often mistaken for a lab-made stone, though it is entirely natural. Here is what charoite is, where it comes from and the folklore around it.

The Physical Properties of Charoite

Charoite varies in color from violet to deep lilac, although in some variations of accompanying minerals it can be white, flamed or black-spotted. With flame-like inclusions, slight to moderate chatoyancy and silky vitreous luster, it is one of the most eye-catching natural stones. The patterns in charoite are striking, often with a feather-like or swirling appearance.

Usually, it's found in massive form, varying in transparency from translucent to opaque. Charoite hardness varies from 5-6 on the Mohs scale according to some sources, and 4.5-5 according to others. It's formed through contact metamorphism ” deposits of limestone transforming through pressure, heat, and infusion of different chemicals. It is a standard process of formation, so it's unclear why charoite has only been found in one region so far.

The History of Charoite

Various sources report that the name of charoite comes from Yakutia Chary River, where it was first discovered around 1940. In Russian, chary means charms or magic, which positively aligns with the impression that this stone imparts.

In 1978, the stone was first introduced on a commercial level. Its only source is still the Murun complex in Siberia.

The Lore of Charoite

Despite only being introduced to the market recently, charoite has been in use since ancient times. Mongols were among the peoples who held this stone in high regard and used it ritually. They brewed tea from it by boiling the stones, which they would then ceremoniously consume. Allegedly, the Mongols believed that charoite tea would strengthen familial and communal ties and protect all household members from evil spirits.

The Metaphysical Properties of Charoite

Charoite is a stone associated with positive feelings of well-being, assertiveness, inner strength, creativity, and spirituality. The ˜stone of power' is considered ideal for balancing and opening the crown, third eye, and solar plexus chakras. Charoite embodies the synthesis of heart and crown chakras, and helps us be more present in the here and now, and is said to stand for being present in the here and now and letting go of old fears.

Its colour is often linked with dreams, personal insight and self-knowledge. In crystal lore it is associated with flexibility and with bringing heart and intellect into line, and it is seen as a symbol of connection.

In folklore, charoite is also tied to restful nights and vivid, positive dreams. These are traditions and personal symbolism, not claims about what the stone does.

Whatever you believe, charoite is a striking, one-of-a-kind stone. Its patterns look especially good in cut and polished stones, and it makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who likes a reminder of gratitude and the present moment close by.