Geology/History
Stichtite & Serpentine, a captivating metamorphic rock, melds the vibrant green of Serpentine, typically Antigorite, a non-fibrous polymorph, with the vivid purple-pink of Stichtite, accented by subtle dark flecks of Chromite and Magnetite. This striking combination forms through hydrothermal alteration of chromite in serpentine rich ultramafic rocks under low temperature, high pressure conditions. This rock formation occurs in Tasmania’s Stichtite Hill (Zeehan), South Africa’s Barberton district, Canada’s Quebec and Ontario regions, with minor deposits in Morocco and Scotland. The Tasmanian variety, trademarked Atlantisite by Gerald Pauley, stands out for its radiant hues, surpassing the duller shades of other deposits and evoking the mythical allure of Atlantis. The Tasmanian variety was discovered in 1910 by railway workers at Stichtite Hill, the stone’s Stichtite component was named after Robert Sticht, manager of Tasmania’s Mt Lyell Mine, reflecting its rich historical roots. Prized for its intricate patterns, Stichtite & Serpentine is a sought after gemstone for jewellery, carvings and decorative objects like spheres, though its softness (Mohs 1.5–5.5) requires careful handling. Collectors and geologists treasure its vibrant colours and patterns, which offer insights into the metamorphic processes of ancient ultramafic terrains.

Metaphysical Properties
A luminous emblem of unity, Stichtite & Serpentine is said to blend the grounding essence of Serpentine with Stichtite’s compassionate energy, its vibrant green and purple hues believed to resonate with the heart and crown chakras. It is thought to foster emotional balance and heighten intuition, encouraging a deep sense of inner peace. Practitioners believe it awakens kundalini energy, shielding against negativity and promoting empathy during meditation. It is said to help dissolve emotional wounds, transforming fear into growth and fostering a connection to universal wisdom. As a beacon of harmony, Stichtite & Serpentine is believed to encourage clear communication and spiritual resilience, guiding users toward enlightenment with grace.

Crystal Healing
Said to support emotional harmony and stress relief. It is believed to ease anxiety, muscle tension and digestive issues. Practitioners claim it enhances compassion and tranquillity, fostering a serene state during meditation.

Mineralogy
Group: Serpentine: Silicate (Phyllosilicate). Stichtite: Carbonate
Crystal System: Serpentine: Monoclinic. Stichtite: Trigonal (hexagonal)
Composition: Serpentine: (Mg,Fe,Ni)₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄. Stichtite: Mg₆Cr₂CO₃(OH)₁₆·4H₂O
Form/Habit: Serpentine: Massive, fibrous, or platy. Stichtite: Micaceous, compact masses
Hardness: Serpentine: 2.5–5.5 (Mohs). Stichtite: 1.5–2
Cleavage: Serpentine: Perfect but rarely visible. Stichtite: Perfect on {0001}
Fracture: Serpentine: Conchoidal to splintery. Stichtite: Uneven
Lustre: Serpentine: Greasy to waxy. Stichtite: Pearly to waxy
Streak: Serpentine: White to greenish. Stichtite: Pale lilac to white
Specific Gravity: Serpentine: 2.5–2.7. Stichtite: ~2.16
Transparency: Serpentine: Translucent to opaque. Stichtite: Opaque to translucent
R.I. (Refractive Index): Serpentine: 1.55–1.56. Stichtite: nω = 1.516, nε = 1.542
Birefringence: Stichtite: δ = 0.026. Serpentine: Not typically measured
Colour: Serpentine: Yellowish-green to dark green, vivid in Tasmania. Stichtite: Pink to purple, vibrant in Tasmania
Pleochroism: Stichtite: Weak; O = dark rose-pink to lilac, E = light rose-pink to lilac
Fluorescence: Non-fluorescent
Strunz Classification: Serpentine: 9.ED.15. Stichtite: 05.DA.50