Stichtite Serpentine (Atlantasite)

Atlantisite is a unique and captivating gemstone that is a combination of two minerals: serpentine and stichtite. The name “Atlantisite” is derived from the belief that the colors of the stone, green and purple, are reminiscent of the legendary lost city of Atlantis. The name “Atlantisite” is inspired by the mythical city of Atlantis, which is believed to have vanished beneath the sea. The connection to Atlantis is more symbolic than factual, as there is no geological evidence linking the stone to the lost city. Instead, the name reflects the vibrant and mystical qualities of the gemstone.

The green and purple colors are thought to evoke a sense of mystery and ancient wisdom, similar to the allure associated with the legendary Atlantis. Atlantisite is not typically found in crystal formations with well-defined faces and edges. Both serpentine and stichtite are minerals that commonly occur in massive or fibrous forms. This crystal is also commonly referred to as Tasmanite, due to some of the very first known pieces coming out of Tasmania. The Atlantisite that comes out of South Africa is designated “Stichtite-Serpentine”, but is no different than Tasmanite or Atlantisite.

Atlantisite is a trademark name specific to the Stichtite Hill mine in Tasmania. Stichtite is as an alteration product of Chromite, a silvery Oxide mineral which is one of the primary alloying ingredients used to make stainless steel. Chromite can grow in a variety of different environments, but can only be altered into Stichtite when the Chromite forms within metamorphic Serpentine stones. When bright purple Stichtite forms next to bright green Serpentine, they create another healing crystals, commonly known as Atlantisite. Stichtite was first documented in Tasmania, Australia in 1910 by the Mount Lyell Mining and Railroad company.

The mining company was principally searching for gold, silver, and copper, but along the way discovered many other minerals, including a few new ones. Stichtite was named after Robert Carl Sticht, the manager of the mine where the deposit was discovered.