What is Norwegian Thulite?
Norwegian Thulite is one of the most generously pink varieties of zoisite. Who would have known that metamorphism of calcium could have such a rosy ending like the formation of thulite? The gemstone primarily appears as veins in host rock. It can be found in several different varieties of stones as well. Thulite also serves as a carving material for jewelry and ornamental projects.
Thulite is also known as Rosaline and Manganoan zoisite. A Swedish chemist named Anders Gustaf Ekebergat discovered the gemstone at Sauland in Telemark, Norway, in 1820. The gem received its name after the mythical island of Thule.
Determining Norwegian Thulite Value
Is Norwegian Thulite valuable? The value of colored stones is determined by a combination of color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. It is no different when determining Norwegian Thulite worth. These guidelines will help you choose thulite stones for your collection.
- Norwegian Thulite Color
Evoking the pink sandy beaches of the Bahamas, thulite color ranges from light pink to rosy pink. The presence of manganese creates this color saturation. Rare types are dark red. Furthermore, tinges of white, gray, and black are also present within the stone.
The vibrant pink or reddish tones of the gemstone, along with a vitreous luster, drive the gem's value. Premium quality thulite exhibits rich and deep color with no noticeable inclusions.
- Norwegian Thulite Clarity
Thulite is opaque, with a pink hue that captivates. When highly polished, the gemstone showcases a brilliant shine. Thulite does not commonly show imperfections. Finished thulite stones should display a smooth surface, free of blemish. Polishing marks or other flaws can lower the value of the stone.
- Norwegian Thulite Cut
The opaque stone is often cut into cabochons for jewelry. The gem uses all standard gemstone shapes, including oval, cushion, pear, and round.
- Norwegian Thulite Carat
Norwegian thulite is usually available in three carats or more. Gems below this size are rare. The range of the thulite at Shop LC is from 3 carats to 25 carats. Larger stones usually cost more on a per carat basis.
Norwegian Thulite Treatment
To enhance luster and durability, this stone is stabilized by Shop LC experts. Stabilization is a method of making rough material more durable and easier to work. An epoxy or resin is soaked or injected into the rough stone. Once dry, it is ready to cut.
Stabilized thulite is often smoother and more resistant to scratching. Stabilization is a permanent treatment. Stabilization does not change the color of the gem.
Norwegian Thulite Gemstone Care
Thulite has a moderate ranking on the Mohs scale of hardness with a rank of 6.0 to 7.0. The stone is likely to stand up to most things that could scratch it.
However, the brittleness of the stone is something to consider. Thulite has a susceptibility to cleavage when struck. Remove thulite jewelry before activities like exercise or housework.
Conditions like a sudden change in temperature or exposure to thermal shock might lead the stone to fracture.
Avoid exposing stabilized gems to excessive heat, as this might damage the gem.
While storing thulite jewelry, keep them separate from other items. Wrap thulite jewelry in a soft cloth during storage. A fabric-lined jewelry box is a great way to protect your investment.
Clean with a soft-bristled brush, lukewarm soapy water, and dry with a soft cloth. Cleaning via harsh chemicals is not recommended. Ultrasonic or steam cleaners can damage or break the stone.
Who Can Wear Norwegian Thulite?
The rosy shades of the thulite go along with any outfit, solid or muted, sequin of patterned, day or night. Thulite looks spectacular alongside vivid metal tones like silver or yellow gold. A statement ring featuring this supersized stone is sure to turn heads. Or, consider a beautiful drop necklace for a serious 'wow' factor. Even an artisan-crafted bracelet is a great way to show off the blushing pinks of this jewel.
How does Norwegian Thulite Compare to Other Pink Stones?
Thulite can sometimes be confused with rhodonite. Generally, rhodonite is darker and sometimes includes dark minerals. Surface oxidation can also alter the color of this material, providing a brownish tint.
Rhodochrosite is another stone that is sometimes mistaken for thulite. However, the distinctive bands of color make it easily distinguishable from thulite. Premium quality thulite displays an even pink color; rhodochrosite features gradient blending of pink and white.
Where Does Norwegian Thulite Come From?
Norwegian Thulite was first discovered in the early 19th century, in Telemark, Norway. Gem-quality deposits also occur in Austria, Australia, and the United States. The primary source of this gemstone is still Norway, however. Shop LC sources our supply of thulite from a mine near Leksvik in Norway.
How is Norwegian Thulite Mined?
The mining locations are hard to reach, as they are deep in the forest. It is a swampy area with bogs, and mountainous terrain adds to the difficulties that miners face. Thulite mining only happens in the summer, due to heavy snow during the winter.
To top it off, the rough gem is surrounded by hard rock, making extraction more challenging. Thulite mining uses small scale, artisanal techniques like picks and shovels.
Mined gem rough is airlifted by helicopters to the sorting facility. Only about 7 to 8 percent of rough ever becomes a polished gem.
Norwegian Thulite Properties
What Does Norwegian Thulite Mean?
Thulite is said to bring a joyful perspective into our lives. Some say that the stone gives us a more enlightened view of living and teaches unconditional love.
Gem therapists suggest that thulite alleviates issues of the heart and solar plexus chakras. The gem also aids in a healthy circulatory system. The pink stone resounds with throat and third eye chakras, leading to more radiant expression of thoughts and beliefs. The gem guides in seeking joy in unforeseen circumstances while strengthening emotional acceptance.
When one lets his or her ego or emotions rule the life experiences, the stone reveals and encourages the person to see a bigger picture.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. These remedies, approaches, and techniques are not a substitute for professional medical care or treatment. They should not be used to treat any ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health care professional.
Is Norwegian Thulite a Birthstone?
Norwegian Thulite is not an official birthstone. However, people looking for a fun alternative of dazzling pink gemstones, thulite might cater the opportunity with a playful upgrade with its vitreous luster. Pink gemstones correspond to gentle emotions like love and affection.
Norwegian Thulite Facts
- Norwegian thulite ranks 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
- The chemical formula of thulite is Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)
- The color of the gemstones ranges from light to rosy pink.
- Norwegian thulite undergoes a stabilization process.