This is Charoite, a rare, silicate mineral from the Murun complex in the Sakha Republic in Russia. It is a relatively new gemstone composed of a phosphorus, calcium, and sodium.

Its name is derived from the Russian word, “Chary” which means “magic” or “charms”. It is often described as being unnaturally beautiful with colors ranging from lilac to lavender and from light-violet to medium-deep purple. Most of the stones have several shades of violet with swirling, streaking, or feather-like patterns. The swirling patterns are as signature trait of chariot and the result of interlocking complex fibrous crystals.

Charoite forms from deposits of limestone transformed through heat, pressure, and the infusion of unique chemicals, a process known as contact metamorphism. This process is common, but the reason why chariot occurrences are rare and isolated to the small area where they are mined in Russia has never been fully understood, but some experts claim that the limited supply may soon cause the Siberian mines to be depleted, much like those of tanzanite and rare ammolite.

Charoite is a relatively new stone on the market at the commercial level, but has been used since ancient times for ceremonial purposes. Mongols would create ornamental objects from the stone and the ceremoniously boiled them into tea with the belief that it could strengthen the ties of family and community, while providing all members with protection from evil spirits. Whether one believes in the superstitions surrounding it or not, it is a beautiful stone.