Rare silicate gem
SCAPOLITE
Scapolite Origin & Physical Properties
Scapolite is a rare silicate of Sodium calcium and aluminum. It forms in columnar tetragonal crystals, yellow to honey-gold color, colorless and rarely in smaller violet purple crystals. Its name is derived from the Greek word ‘skapos’ meaning shaft, named for the shape of its columnar crystals. It has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 Mohs. Scapolite forms in calcium-rich veins in limestone deposits, often with the closely related silica mineral Diopside.
Scapolite is translucent to transparent and larger crystals generally have inclusions. Collectors often value crystals over cut gems of Scapolite due to the distinct beauty of the striated topaz-like crystal forms. It can be faceted but cut stones are very much a specialty item and very rare. Scapolite was only discovered in 1913 in northern Myanmar. Later yellow scapolite was discovered in Madagascar and Brazil. Rich finds of Scapolite have also been found in Tanzania, Mozambique, and Afghanistan.
| Category | Properties |
|---|---|
Chemical Composition |
(Na,Ca)4(Si,Al)12O24(Cl,CO3,SO4) |
Mohs Hardness |
5-6 |
Luster |
Vitreous |
Specific Gravity |
2.5 - 2.7 |
Refractive Index |
1.54 – 1.58 |
Fluorescence |
Pink: orange, pink; Yellow: violet, blue-red |
Crystal System |
Tetragonal |
Diaphaneity |
Transparent |
Color |
White, Gray, Pale brown, Pink, Yellow, Purple |
Origin |
Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, Switzerland, Norway, Burma, Canada, Brazil, Malagasy Republic, Tasmania |
Chakra |
Solar Plexus (3rd) |
Zodiac |
Taurus |
Element |
Air |
Metaphysical Effects |
Change, Growth, positivity, self-esteem, calm, relieve stress, removes irritability |
Scapolite Healing & Metaphysical Properties
Scapolite is a rare complex silicate crystal that carries the natural healing properties of crystalized calcium. It can enhance cellular memory and increase mental capacity. Yellow Scapolite is attuned to the Solar-Plexus Chakra. By balancing and activating this chakra we gain feelings of empowerment, increased enthusiasm for life and self-confidence. It is particularly effective at stimulating new ideas and opening the intellect to the alchemical energies of the intuition. Yellow Scapolite carries the glowing ray of the sun and its uplifting vibrations can help in times of confusion and lack of clarity.
Purple Scapolite is highly pleochroic and its colors can shift from a lavender to a deep violet. Rarely, Scapolite also forms in light pink crystals. These cool colored gems are connected to the heart and crown chakras, helping to open up the kundalini to divine subtle energies. Violet Scaplite is a rare mystical crystal that acts as a dream stone and actuator of higher states of awareness.
