Gemstone Spotlight: Sugilite

Sugilite
by: Ben Tseytlin - on Antiques & Jewelry

Sugilite has been classified as a gemstone, one that is rare and famous for its pink or purple coloration. Premium specimens are coveted by gem collectors as well as lapidarists.

The Origins of Sugilite

This mineral is comprised of lithium potassium sodium silicate. However, it is the presence of manganese which is responsible for producing the pink or purple color. The exact composition of a given specimen might vary since aluminum, manganese and iron may substitute for each other. Unlike other gems, which have been known since antiquity, Sugilite was first discovered during the 20th century, in 1944. However, it wouldn’t appear on the jewelry scene until 1979, once commercial level amounts were discovered in a South African mine.

It is for this reason that few people have ever heard of it, except those who are diehard gem experts. Its rarity combined with its low quantity and recent commercial history has prevented it from being heavily promoted, but this is likely to change in the future. It is versatile and can be used to create various objects, including miniature sculptures, beads and cabochons. Aside from Southern Africa, other places which contain Sugilite include Brazil, Russia and India; however none of these regions produce commercial level quantities.

Sugilite Characteristics

The Mohs hardness rating for Sugilite ranges from 5.5 up to 6.5. This means it is hard enough to be used in pendants, brooches, earrings and other types of jewelry which aren’t subject to impact or abrasion. When applied to bracelets or rings, it must be placed inside a mounting which will shield it from debasement. The most desirable Sugilite is that which is found within customized jewelry. It is often paired with sterling silver or turquoise, which is a stunning combination and especially popular in regions such as the American Southwest.

Aside from jewelry, Sugilite can be used to make things such as trays, desk sets and miniature boxes. Its purplish color makes it well suited to combinations such as opal, lapis lazuli and malachite. Sugilite pieces which are excessively small for cutting will often be crushed instead, after which they will be combined with resin then cast so they become blocks. These blocks will then be cut down into slabs then subsequently used to fashion cabochons and beads.  Because of its exceptional rarity, a lot of the Sugilite which is commercially available is usually Sugilite mixed with various other minerals.

Wearing and Caring for Sugilite Jewelry

Those who want to purchase Sugilite jewelry should definitely familiarize themselves with the material. The reason for this is because some unscrupulous dealers sell imitation Sugilite and try to pass it off as being the real thing, charging a high price tag. In addition to purple and pink, this gem might also appear in red, black, brown or yellow. It is a fragile gem that must be handled with care. When making a purchase do not depend solely on your eyes, as it can be difficult to differentiate between authentic Sugilite and the dyed imitation knock offs. Those that intend to spend big money on jewelry containing it should consider having it examined by a gem expert or laboratory.