Stichtite in Serpentine (Atlantisite)

Item Description

Stichtite is hydrated chromium magnesium carbonate which is formed as an alteration product from chromium-bearing Serpentine. The species was discovered in 1910 in Western Tasmania, Australia, and was first recognized by A.S. Wesley who was a former chief chemist with the Mount Lyell Mining and Railway Company. It was named after Robert Carl Sticht, who was the manager of the mine. This piece is a typical example of the material featuring pinkish-purple "patches" of Stichtite sitting on olive green Serpentine matrix. In the gem trade, this material is polised and sold under the name "Atlantisite". It actually looks beautiful with a good polish on it. A cool combination of a rarity and beauty in the mineral world.