Where is Sugilite found?
KNa2(Fe,Mn,Al)2Li3Si12O30
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Open the appSugilite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Sugilite
Wessels Mine, Northern Cape Province, South Africa
The most significant and commercially important deposit, producing the finest quality sugilite. It occurs in a manganese mine within a metamorphosed iron-formation.
Iwagi Islet, Ehime Prefecture, Japan
The type locality where sugilite was first discovered. Occurs in an aegirine syenite.
Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec, Canada
Known for producing small, well-formed, but often pale, sugilite crystals in an alkaline intrusive complex.
Liguria, Italy
Minor occurrences reported.
New South Wales, Australia
Minor occurrences reported.
Collecting tips
- Geological Context. Look for sugilite in areas known for manganese deposits, especially those associated with alkali-rich igneous or metasomatized metamorphic rocks. Its formation requires a very specific geochemical environment.
- Associated Minerals. Sugilite often occurs with other manganese minerals like braunite, kutnahorite, and rhodochrosite, as well as aegirine, albite, and pectolite. Identifying these associated minerals can help pinpoint potential sugilite occurrences.
- Color and Luster. Its distinctive purple color and vitreous to resinous luster are key visual identifiers. Be aware of variations in color intensity and the presence of inclusions.
- Hardness Test. With a Mohs hardness of 5.5-6.5, sugilite can scratch glass but can be scratched by quartz. This can help differentiate it from softer or harder purple minerals.
- Massive Form. Since well-formed crystals are rare, most sugilite is found in massive, granular, or compact aggregates. Focus on identifying these forms rather than seeking perfect crystals.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Purple to pinkish-purple
- Luster:
- Vitreous to resinous
- Streak:
- White
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