Serendibite: The Exotic, Dark Gemstone of Dreams

Have you ever heard of a gemstone that embodies the beauty and mystery of a far-off land? A stone that captures the essence of an exotic paradise and the secrets that it holds? Such a gemstone exists, and its name is serendibite.

Serendibite is a rare and elusive mineral that was first discovered in Sri Lanka in 1902 by British mineralogist G.T. Prior. It was named after the ancient name for Sri Lanka, Serendib, a land of fabled beauty and legend. Since then, serendibite has been found in only a handful of locations worldwide, including Canada, Madagascar and Myanmar, making it one of the rarest and most coveted gemstones on the planet.

The beauty of serendibite lies in its deep, rich colors that can range from a deep blue-green to a dark brown or black, with flashes of white or yellow. Serendibite is a complex borosilicate mineral that can contain a variety of elements, including aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron and boron. Its physical structure, meanwhile, is composed of chains of SiO4 and BO3 tetrahedra that are linked together to form a three-dimensional framework. This framework is responsible for the unique optical properties of serendibite, which give it its beautiful and vibrant coloration. Serendibite also has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes it a relatively durable gemstone that can be fashioned into various jewelry pieces, from rings to necklaces to earrings.

Serendibite holds significant meanings and symbolism in various cultures. In Sri Lankan folklore, serendibite is said to bring good luck and happiness to those who wear it. In other cultures, serendibite is believed to bring protection and healing properties.

There have been several famous serendibite stones and jewelry pieces throughout history. One such piece is a serendibite ring that sold at auction for more than $1.8 million. This exquisite ring featured a rare and large serendibite stone surrounded by diamonds and set in platinum.

Serendibite is typically cut into elongated oval shapes, and its price per carat can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $20,000, depending on the quality and size of the gemstone.

While serendibite is rare, it’s still possible to find this exquisite gemstone today. High-end jewelers and gemstone dealers are the best places to start your search. Serendibite’s exclusivity and beauty make it a perfect choice for those looking for a unique and unforgettable piece of jewelry.

In conclusion, serendibite is a rare and exquisite gemstone that captures the imagination with its unique beauty and allure of a far-off land. With its deep colors and intricate crystal structure, serendibite is a true treasure for jewelry lovers and a gem connoisseur’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a piece of jewelry that’s one-of-a-kind, or a gemstone with deep cultural significance, serendibite is sure to exceed your expectations.

Photo of serendibite courtesy of the Gemological Institute of America