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Sugilite

Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Sugilite

Also known as: Luvulite

Rich royal-purple stone discovered in Japan and found in gem quality mainly in South Africa.

  • ColourPurple, Magenta, Violet
  • Mineral groupMilarite group (silicate)
  • ChemistryKNa₂(Fe,Mn,Al)₂Li₃Si₁₂O₃₀
  • Hardness (Mohs)5.5–6.5
  • Crystal systemHexagonal
  • Where it's foundSouth Africa (Kalahari manganese field), Japan, India
  • ChakraCrown
  • ZodiacVirgo

What is Sugilite?

Sugilite is a rare lithium-bearing silicate whose intense purple comes from manganese. It was first described from Iwagi Islet in Japan in 1976 and named after Japanese petrologist Ken-ichi Sugi, who found it in 1944. Gem-quality purple material comes mainly from the Wessels mine in South Africa's Kalahari manganese field.

Sugilite astrology & birthstone

  • Zodiac signsVirgo
  • Ruling planet—
  • ElementAir
  • Birthstone month—

Zodiac, planet and element links come from crystal-lore traditions and vary between authors. Birthstone months follow the American Gem Society list.

Sugilite meaning & traditional properties

Sugilite is associated in modern crystal traditions with calm, spiritual awareness and protection.

  • Calm
  • Protection
  • Spiritual awareness

Traditional and metaphysical properties are shared for cultural and educational interest. Crystals are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

How to use Sugilite

  • Wear sugilite as a vivid purple statement stone.
  • Keep a piece in a meditation space.

How to care for Sugilite

Moderately hard. Avoid knocks and harsh chemicals; clean with warm soapy water.

Looking for Sugilite?

Sugilite isn't in our shop right now – new stock arrives regularly. In the meantime, explore similar crystals we have available or browse our full crystal collection.

  • Amethyst
    In our shop

    Amethyst

    Purple quartz, the February birthstone, famous since ancient Greece as the stone of calm and a clear head.

  • Lepidolite
    In our shop

    Lepidolite

    Lilac lithium mica with a soft sparkle, popular in crystal lore for calm, balance and sleep.

  • Fluorite
    In our shop

    Fluorite

    Colour-banded crystals that gave 'fluorescence' its name – a crystal lore stone of focus and order.

Rituals & pairings

Pair Sugilite with a calm & sleep ritual

An evening wind-down ritual to slow the mind before rest.

Traditionally paired with: Lavender or chamomile incense · Sandalwood or Nag Champa · A soft lavender or white candle

  • Dim the lights and light a lavender or chamomile candle.
  • Light sandalwood or lavender incense and take five slow breaths.
  • Hold your crystal in your palm while you let the day go, then place it on your bedside table.
  • Blow out the candle before you sleep.

Safety: never leave candles, incense or smudge sticks burning unattended, keep them away from children, pets and anything flammable, and ventilate the room. Rituals are shared as tradition, not as a treatment.

Ritual oils, essential oils & perfumes

Deepen your practice: tarot & oracle cards

Wear it & work with it

Sugilite jewellery & pendulums

Wear the energy of your favourite crystals every day – browse our handmade crystal jewellery and dowsing pendulums.

Sugilite FAQs

Who is sugilite named after?

Japanese petrologist Ken-ichi Sugi.

Where does sugilite come from?

Gem material comes mainly from South Africa's Kalahari manganese field.

Related crystals

  • Charoite

    Charoite

    Swirling lilac-purple stone found in only one place – near the Chara River in Siberia.

  • Amethyst
    In our shop

    Amethyst

    Purple quartz, the February birthstone, famous since ancient Greece as the stone of calm and a clear head.

  • Lepidolite
    In our shop

    Lepidolite

    Lilac lithium mica with a soft sparkle, popular in crystal lore for calm, balance and sleep.

  • Fluorite
    In our shop

    Fluorite

    Colour-banded crystals that gave 'fluorescence' its name – a crystal lore stone of focus and order.

Sources