Frequently asked questions

• What is the difference between stichtite and atlantisite?

  Stichtite is a magnesium chromium carbonate that forms in soft purple to lilac-pink masses. Atlantisite is the trade name for stichtite intergrown with green serpentine in the same matrix — the purple stichtite veins or patches sit inside a green serpentine host. Both names appear in this collection because the material is often cut from the same Tasmanian and South African deposits. A bead labeled stichtite typically shows mostly purple-pink color; a bead labeled atlantisite shows a clear two-tone purple-and-green pattern. The specific designation should be disclosed — ask before buying if it isn't specified.
• How soft is stichtite, and what does that mean for stringing?

  Stichtite is one of the softest stones used as beads, at Mohs 1.5–2.5 — comparable to gypsum or graphite. Drill holes and bead surfaces are vulnerable to scratching from harder beads strung next to them, from crimp tubes pulled too tight, and from rough findings. Use bead caps or soft spacers (silk knots, leather, rubber) between stichtite beads and any harder stone or metal element. Knot between beads on silk if possible. Store finished pieces flat and separate from other jewelry. Even normal abrasion against fabric over time will dull a polish.
• What kinds of jewelry is stichtite suitable for?

  Given Mohs 1.5–2.5, stichtite belongs in low-wear contexts: earrings, pendants, brooches, and necklaces that hang clear of cuffs and abrasion. Avoid rings and bracelets entirely — the stone will scuff and chip with daily wear. Atlantisite (stichtite with serpentine) is slightly more durable because the serpentine matrix carries some of the load, but it should still be treated as a soft stone. Designers often use stichtite as a focal bead in a strand of harder, more wear-resistant beads rather than as the main structural element.
• How do I clean stichtite without damaging it?

  Wipe with a dry or barely-damp soft cloth. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners, steam, or any chemical jewelry dip — the stone is a hydrated carbonate and reacts poorly to water immersion, acids, and heat. Avoid contact with perfume, hairspray, lotion, and sweat where possible, since these accumulate in the porous surface and dull the polish. If a bead picks up grime, a quick wipe is the limit; soaking will damage it. Remove stichtite jewelry before washing hands, showering, or swimming.
• How do I tell stichtite apart from sugilite, charoite, or lepidolite?

  All four show purple tones and confuse buyers in the bead trade. Sugilite (Mohs 6–6.5) is much harder and usually a denser, more uniform reddish-purple. Charoite (Mohs 5–6) has a distinctive swirled fibrous pattern with chatoyant sheen. Lepidolite (Mohs 2.5–3) is a mica with visible flaky, layered texture and often pink-lavender coloration. Stichtite is the softest of the four, takes a waxy rather than glassy polish, and frequently appears alongside green serpentine in the same bead (atlantisite). When in doubt, hardness and the presence of a green serpentine host are the clearest tells.