Information about Stichtite

Stichtite is a rare, bright-colored mineral typically appearing as a massive, fine-grained aggregate with a waxy to silky texture.

Its most common colours are shades of pink, lilac, lavender, and purple, although it can occasionally appear greenish due to intergrowths with serpentine – and a well known form is a combination of Serpentine and Stichtite which tends to be a green and purple mixed stone known as “Atlantisite”.

Uses and History

Stichtite is primarily used as a decorative or ornamental stone. It usually has a vibrant purple colour, which is often cut en cabochon or carved.

It is not ideal for jewellery though – even cut en cabochon. It is simply far too soft for jewellery usage outside of potentially earrings or pendants.

Stichtite was first discovered in 1910 at the Dundas region in Tasmania, Australia, where it was named after Robert Carl Sticht, a mining engineer and manager of the Mount Lyell Mining and Railway Company.

Mineralogy

Hazards and Warnings

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis.

When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

Translations

Further Reading / External Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stichtite
• https://www.mindat.org/min-3784.html