Origin: Notably U.S.A., China
Mineral Species: Eucryptite
Mineral Group: Silicates
Chemical Formula: LiAlSiO4
Hardness: 6.5
Crystal System: Trigonal
Colour: Colourless, white, pale pink, tan or grey.
Typical Appearance: Rarely forms crystals, and when it does, they are equant euhedral. More commonly as a secondary alteration product and sometimes pseudomorph of kunzite.
Birthstone: No known astrological sign
Chakra Alignment: Heart
Element: Water & Air
Origin of Name & Mythology: Named in 1880 by Brush and Dana from the Greek for "well concealed", in allusion to its occurrence embedded in albite. Also known as α-eucryptite or alpha-eucryptite.
Often occurring as a pseudomorph of kunzite, Eucryptite’s chemical formula is nearly identical to spodumene (kunzite and hiddenite), but its crystal system is trigonal rather than monoclinic. Both are lithium minerals and share similar qualities, such as stabilising mood, encouraging compassion, improving outlook, and they are generally nurturing.
There are subtle differences, however. Kunzite is very calming, slightly aloof, solemn (to some extent), and keeps emotions balanced by suppressing both euphoria and deep plunges into the abyss.
Eucryptite is very Heart-centred and has a warm, friendly, open sunshine personality. It is more likely to lift the spirits and gently raise energy levels, while it relaxes the body with the sense of releasing a deep, held breath.
As with other lithium minerals, eucryptite is helpful in the treatment of depression and bipolar disorder, as well as improving cognition in the early stages of dementia. It can support muscle relaxation in airways when treating asthma.
The most sought after Eucryptite floureseces a vibrant salmon pink under Long Wave UV.
