Amazing and mysterious Scapolite stone - features of the varieties where they are used, photos of the mineral and proper care

Scapolite is a sodium-calcium aluminosilicate that is externally associated with vesuvian and calcite. Different shades of the mineral make you wonder what kind of stone is presented to the human eye. For example, a yellow or orange material is often confused with citrine, and a purple sample is mistaken for amethyst, while a pink stone is so similar to beryl.

Its amazing propensity to change composition highlights several varieties of the bizarre stone to which this article is dedicated.

The history of the name and the formation of the mineral

The name of the mineral is due to its spring appearance. The stone resembles rods or pillars, which in Greek forms the word "scapolite". Crystals resemble an elongated prism with a non-pointed pyramid at the top. Also in nature, small grains up to 1 cm are observed. in diameter, and the smallest inclusions, and samples that are a mass.

At the end of the 19th century, varieties of scapolite were discovered and studied. They are described in the works of famous German and French crystallographers and researchers. Scapolite mineral refers to metamorphic rocks and is formed as a result of changes in limestones and dolomites.They can also be replaced by epidotes, chlorites or mica.

Characteristic

Scapolite belongs to the group of aluminosilicates. It contains calcium and sodium with various impurities. The mineral is characterized by isomorphism, which is due to the preservation of the primary form when the chemical composition changes.

Physical and chemical properties of scapolite

The formula of the gem varies depending on the composition.

• The stone has a conchoidal fracture and a glassy luster. Sometimes there are aggregates with a wax or mother-of-pearl type of luster.
• Some specimens can take on two shades at the same time. This property is called dichroism.
• The color of minerals changes, as they differ in their unstable composition. In nature, you can find yellow, green, pink, blue, blue and transparent specimens.
• The nugget is inherent in the effect of double refraction, during which the beam of light splits into two, passing through the crystal.
• The cleavage of the gem is perfect.
• Scapolite has asterism. When the stone turns at a certain angle, a star appears on its surface, formed by light rays.
• Among the chemical properties, the volatility of the mineral stands out clearly. The composition of the scapolite can change, while the appearance will remain intact.
• Hardness on the Mohs scale from 5 to 6.5.
• Aluminosilicate is characterized by tetragonal syngony.
• The mineral is characterized by a high degree of transmission of light rays and increased fragility.
• Some crystals are characterized by the "cat's eye" property. It lies in the fact that a glare of light seems to be moving along the surface, leaving behind a white stripe.

magical properties

The most valuable specimens in the field of magic are those that have the effect of a cat's eye.The mystery of such stones fascinated and attracted the attention of many sorcerers and sorcerers of different eras. That is why it is very popular in light and dark magic. It is believed that the mineral is able to prevent the evil eye, as well as get rid of it.

The crystal allows you to gain concentration and make the right decision in the course of finding answers to exciting questions. It enhances intuition, opening the mental abilities of its owner.

The amulet in the form of a scapolite gives the owner strength and energy, fighting fatigue and laziness. The person will always take the right steps and sidestep things with a potentially negative outcome.

Medicinal properties

Scapolite has long been used in massage therapy. Ideally smooth pebbles were chosen for the procedure. It was believed that the gem helps to get in shape and feel the flow of vital energy.

Stone heals:

• headache
• blood diseases
• eye diseases: cataracts, conjunctivitis, glaucoma
• vascular diseases.

It can improve blood pressure and tone the body. During the rehabilitation period after injuries or operations, purple scapolite comes to the rescue. It accelerates the healing process of wounds and stabilizes the condition.

The owners of such a talisman will not experience feelings of depression and prolonged depression, as the scapolite puts the soul in order, directing thoughts in the right direction. It improves performance.

Varieties

Due to the characteristic feature - variability - several varieties of scapolite were found.

• Sarcolite. The mineral "gives out" a bright red color. The species was found in the deposits of the volcano Vesuvius and is not widely distributed.
• Glavkolit. This mineral is mined in the Baikal region.It has blue and blue hues, due to which it is often confused with lapis lazuli.
• Ussingitis. A dark, violet-blue crystal that loses its color when exposed to direct sunlight. Greenland is considered its homeland.
• Stroganovit. The variety is very similar to calcite. It is colored straw yellow or greenish.
• Bakes. The stone was first discovered in Africa in 1975. It is characterized by a dark color, close to dark blue or purple.

Place of Birth

Scapolite deposits are located almost everywhere. It can be found on the territory of Russia, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Italy, the Scandinavian countries, the USA and Brazil. In our country, deposits are known in the Republic of Sakha and in the Baikal region.

Sometimes scapolite is fixed in igneous rocks. He creates duets with tourmaline, topaz and beryl. In the vents of extinct volcanoes, perfect forms of stone crystals arise.

Areas of use

The fragility of the precious mineral does not allow expanding the scope of scapolite. The mineral is often exposed to gamma rays. Due to this, it becomes more saturated in color, but less resistant to sunlight. After this procedure, it must be protected from ultraviolet rays.

Jewelers all over the world were attracted by pink varieties of scapolite. Such stones were discovered at the beginning of the 20th century in Burma, and several different colors of such rocks can now be observed. Masters of their craft create whimsical gemstone jewelry. Among them are rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces, where both silver and gold, as well as other artificial materials, are used as a cut.

stone care

Scapolite is a fragile breed.It does not tolerate the influence of physical forces and therefore, under the influence of mechanical actions, it breaks and crumbles. It must be protected from impacts, rough contact with other stones, falls and scratches. It is best to store the talisman in a separate box, wrapped in a soft cloth in advance.

Who is suitable for scapolite

The mineral is especially in harmony with Taurus. People born under this zodiac sign are protected by a stone that controls their emotions and helps them cope with problems.

Scapolite will become a talisman for people learning something. Schoolchildren and students should purchase such a talisman for themselves. It will help keep the mind alert and remember more information.

The cost of natural stone

The price of products with aluminosilicate depends on the external characteristics, strength, color and method of cutting the mineral. The blue and purple samples are the most expensive, the price tag of which in the store crosses the line of 2,500 Russian rubles.

Interesting Facts

• Scapolite is often called a student's stone. The reason is its confinement to help in the development of sciences and the acquisition of new knowledge.
• Once in Tanzania, the largest yellow aluminosilicate was discovered. Its weight is 130 carats. The orange copy from Ceylon gave way to him first place, having lost literally 12 units of measure in weight.
• There is an opinion that the mineral can save relationships. Couples who have jewelry with such a stone will be faithful to each other, and their union will “live” for a long time.
• Scapolite was discovered by scientists on the surface of Mars. According to the hypothesis, there are much more of it than on our planet.

The miraculous objects hidden in the depths of the Earth are not always available to the human eye. One of these bizarre specimens is the scapolite stone.Jewelry with it looks incredibly beautiful, and magical and healing properties increase the value of the mineral.

Photo of the Scapolite stone