A highly regarded gem material, sugilite is a rare mineral made of sodium, potassium, and lithium. Trace amounts of manganese give sugilite its vivid pink to grape purple colour. Although it can come in a myriad different colours due to the changes in the mineral's chemical composition.

The Physical Properties of Sugilite

Some specimens can have the same purple shade as amethyst, while others can be pale pink, lilac, lavender, or magenta. Sugilites with an intense purple colour, regardless of a mottled appearance, are the most sought after specimens. Mottled specimens

In terms of hardness, sugilite is rated 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. It has a tough tenacity and a poor cleavage, making it a durable gemstone material. It is often cut and polished into beads, cabochons, pendants, earrings, and small sculptures. When fashioned into rings and bracelets, mounting sugilite on silver is advised to protect it from damage.

The History of Sugilite

Where did the name sugilite originate?

Sugilite was named after the Japanese geologist, Ken-ichi Sugi, who first discovered the mineral sometime in 1944 on Iwagi Islet in Japan. At the time, the largest known deposits of sugilite were found in the northern part of Cape Province in South Africa, specifically in the Wessels Mine.

Since its discovery, not a lot of jewellers and collectors are familiar with the mineral because of its scarcity. Add to that the fact that sugilite has not been promoted extensively on the market.

When made into different jewellery pieces and decors, sugilite is combined with other colourful stones like lapis lazuli, malachite, opal, and turquoise to create flamboyant designs.

Gem-quality sugilite occurs in manganese deposits. It's also found in small quantities in marble and igneous rocks. Other than in South Africa, sugilite is produced in Brazil, Canada, India, Japan, Ghana, and Russia.

The Lore of Sugilite

Being a relatively new stone found during the tail end of World War II there is no record of ancient legends linked to sugilite. Although some people believe that since it was discovered during a tumultuous time, only those with a peaceful mind and heart can find the stone.

People experiencing pain, agony, and sorrow can receive healing by wearing or meditating with sugilite.

According to health folklore, sugilite has powerful healing properties which include curing headaches and other pains experienced in the head. This is attributed to the manganese present in the stone.

It is also believed to treat dyslexia and other learning-related challenges. Sugilite is also thought to remedy flu and digestive problems by absorbing negative energies.

The Metaphysical Properties of Sugilite

This beautiful mineral isn't only pleasing to the eyes, but it also soothes the mind and heart. Sugilite can infuse peace and calmness to its user which leads to emotional healing. It's one of the best stones to work with when your heart is heavy with pain and longing.

In the process, sugilite will enable you to observe your pain and understand your feelings rather than be consumed by them. It will lend you the strength to free yourself from overwhelming emotions like anger, fear, resentment, and jealousy.

Speaking of best self, this gorgeous stone can help transform you into a person who loves others unconditionally. Sugilite can show you how to be more patient, forgiving, loving, and understanding of the other person. It will help you find love that liberates and inspires.

Sugilite is also a suitable stone for making children feel safe and grounded, especially in a new environment. Place it on a nightstand or under the pillow to keep nightmares and insomnia at bay and to encourage vivid dreams. A sugilite stone is also believed to increase a child's confidence in social situations when it's kept inside their pocket.

When used in meditation, sugilite's violet energy flows into the crown chakra and fills the mind with wisdom and deeper insights. Sugilite also unites the mind and the spirit so you can become more attuned to your true self.

Sources:

King, H. (n.d.). Sugilite. Geology.com. Accessed at https://geology.com/minerals/sugilite.shtml

Lucas, C. (n.d.). Sugilite: Meaning, Properties and Powers. Crystals&Jewelry.com. Accessed at https://meanings.crystalsandjewelry.com/sugilite/

Sugilite Meaning and Uses. (n.d.). Crystal Vaults. Accessed at https://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/sugilite/

7 healing crystals for children. (2014, February 3). Therapy Directory. Accessed at https://www.therapy-directory.org.uk/memberarticles/7-healing-crystals-for-children

Moses, L. and Chapman, R. (2021, July 30). Use These 16 Crystals To Banish Bad Breakup Vibes And Get Your Mojo Back. Elite Daily. Accessed at https://www.elitedaily.com/dating/crystals-for-heartbreak