Seraphinite

Frequently asked questions

• What is seraphinite, mineralogically?

  Seraphinite is a trade name for a chatoyant variety of clinochlore, a magnesium-iron aluminum silicate in the chlorite group. The silvery feather-like 'wings' are naturally occurring mica inclusions arranged within the dark green clinochlore matrix. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and is found commercially only at the Korshunovskoye deposit in Eastern Siberia, Russia.
• Is seraphinite treated or dyed?

  Seraphinite is one of the few gemstones where untreated, natural material is the industry standard — the silvery chatoyant patterns are not enhanced. Stabilization is uncommon but not unheard of for very soft pieces; ask before buying if not specified.
• How durable is seraphinite for jewelry?

  Seraphinite is soft, at Mohs 2–2.5 — comparable to gypsum and softer than a fingernail. It's well suited to earrings, pendants, and protected bezel settings, but not to rings, bracelets, or anything that takes abrasion. The chatoyant 'wings' sit at the surface and dull with wear. Clean with a soft dry cloth only; avoid ultrasonic, steam, and prolonged water exposure.
• What's the difference between seraphinite and serpentine or chlorite?

  Chlorite is the mineral group seraphinite belongs to — seraphinite is specifically the chatoyant clinochlore variety from Russia, distinguished by its silvery mica feathering. Serpentine is a different magnesium silicate, typically lighter green and waxier, without the feather chatoyancy. Generic 'chlorite' beads are usually opaque green without the distinctive silver pattern.
• What cuts and sizes of seraphinite does Dakota carry?

  Current stock includes cabochons, faceted rounds, smooth rounds, microfaceted rounds, chips, table cut cubes, faceted cubes, and pebble/nugget shapes. Bead sizes presently range from 2mm microfaceted up through 15mm rounds. Cabochons are well represented for designers setting the chatoyant face into bezels or wire-wrapped pendants.