THULITE GEMSTONE

THULITE GEMSTONE

Thulite (also known as Rosaline Zoisite) derives its name from an ancient lore of the mythical island of Thule which was believed to be Scandinavia.

Thulite is of calcium aluminum silicate hydroxide chemical composition.

It is a pink to red variety of Zoisite, often mottled white and gray. It is an opaque gemstone composed of dense crystals.

Thulite is a rare material and is considered a minor gemstone.

Thulite was first discovered in Norway in 1820 at a place called Sauland in Telemark. It is now the Norwegian national stone.

The primary source of Thulite is from Norway at Tvedestrand and Leksvik in Sorlandet, Aust-Auger. It is found in North Carolina, United States, Namibia and Australia.

Thulite has a hardness ranging from 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It comes with white veining inclusions due to calcite. The pink and red color in Thulite is caused by the chemical element manganese. Thulite has a glass-like to pearly luster and a perfect cleavage.

Thulite is often confused with Clinothulite which is a pink, manganese-rich variety of Clinozoisite. Clinozoisite is a complex calcium aluminum sorosilicate mineral. It was first discovered in East Tyrol, Austria in 1896 and is so-named because of its resemblance to Zoisite. Nonetheless, Clinozoisite crystal structure is monoclinic while Thulite is orthorhombic.

Thulite and Clinothulite are so identical that it is impossible to know the difference without a complex scientific identification procedure.

Other gemstones that look similar to Thulite are Rhodonite and Rhodochrosite. Rhodonite however comes with black streaks whereas Thulite comes with white veining. Rhodochrosite, on the other hand, comes with banding which Thulite lacks, not to mention Rhodochrosite Mohs hardness varies between 3.5 and 4 while Thulite is much harder, ranging from 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale.

Thulite is not known to be treated or enhanced to change its color.

Thulite as a gemstone is usually polished into cabochons and beads and carved into ornamental figures.

Thulite is a stone that radiates love, compassion, happiness, joy and serenity.

It is associated with the heart chakra which is the center of self-awareness, love and compassion.

Thulite stimulates the heart chakra and aligns the energy of the heart with the energy of the throat chakra.

Thulite helps to remove negative thoughts and emotions. It relaxes you in social functions as it is known to inspire eloquent speech, confidence and love for life.

Pink colored stones usually represent unconditional love for oneself and others.

Thulite should always be stored carefully to avoid scuffs and scratches. Clean with gentle soap and lukewarm water, scrubbing behind the gem with a very soft toothbrush as necessary. After cleaning, pat dry with a soft towel or chamois cloth.