suggerite

Suggerite is a mineral name most often encountered as an alternate spelling of sugilite, a purple to violet silicate gemstone variety valued in jewelry. The standard and widely used spelling in mineralogy and gemology is sugilite, while suggerite appears less commonly and may reflect historical or regional spelling variations.

Sugilite was first described in 1944 by the Japanese geologist Ken-ichi Sugi, after whom the mineral is named. It forms in manganese-rich metamorphic and hydrothermal environments, typically as massive to granular aggregates rather than well-formed crystals. The distinctive purple color is caused by trace amounts of manganese and related elements, producing a range from lavender to deep purple tones. The material is usually opaque to translucent with a vitreous to silky luster and is commonly cut en cabochon for gemstone use.

Geologically, sugilite occurs in several localities, with the type locality in Japan and later notable sources in the manganese-rich regions of South Africa and other areas worldwide. In addition to its appeal as an ornamental stone, sugilite is sometimes associated with other manganese minerals in its host rocks.

In gemology, sugilite is prized for its vivid color and rarity compared with more common purple stones. Care for sugilite jewelry involves routine cleaning with warm, soapy water and avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage fragile, opaque masses.

In summary, suggerite (more correctly sugilite) refers to the purple gemstone mineral valued for its striking color, with a name honoring its discoverer, and a geological setting tied to manganese-rich metamorphic and hydrothermal deposits.