Trolleite Meaning and Properties

Trolleite History


The gemstone trolleite was first found in the late 1860s and officially described in 1868. It was named by Blomstrand in honor of Hans Gabriel Trolle-Wachtmeister, a Swedish attorney general and chemist.


Initially, trolleite was believed to be exclusive to Sweden's Vastana mine, making it exceptionally rare. However, other sources of the stone were later discovered, increasing its availability in the market, though it remains relatively uncommon.


Due to its recent discovery, trolleite lacks significant historical uses. It is mainly considered a collector's stone, although it is occasionally used for ornamental purposes.


Trolleite Metaphysical Properties


Generally, trolleite is considered a calming stone, and some believe it can aid in conditions related to stress, pain, or anxiety. It has been associated with promoting a sense of calm, which may lead to beliefs that it could be helpful for conditions like hypertension and anxiety.


Trolleite is often associated with a high vibration, believed to enable connections with guiding energies. It is frequently linked with the scorzalite mineral, enhancing its connection to dreams and insight. Many people consider trolleite an excellent stone for meditation, allowing access to inner wisdom and mental clarity in challenging or emotional situations. It is also believed to dissolve spiritual barriers, providing a calming energy to facilitate the process.


Moreover, some believe that trolleite assists in manifestation and enlightenment, making it easier to pursue goals and navigate life's journey. It is said to draw energy from past experiences, including past lives, leading to more informed choices in the present. Furthermore, trolleite is thought to empower individuals to identify life obstacles and take necessary actions for personal growth.


Trolleite Geological Properties


Initially, trolleite seemed to be predominantly found in Sweden, making it a scarce gemstone. However, over time, other deposits were discovered in various countries, expanding the availability of the stone to some extent. Presently, Australia, Brazil, Rwanda, and the United States are all known sources of trolleite.

Among these, the Minas Gerais region of Brazil stands out as one of the most significant sources. Trolleite inclusions, often in sizable amounts, are frequently found within quartz masses in this area. As a result, trolleite has become reasonably accessible in the marketplace today. In addition to being sought after by collectors, the stone is cut, polished, and shaped, enabling it to find its way into jewelry designs at times.

Trolleite is an aluminum phosphate mineral that combines quartz, lazulite, and scorzalite. It usually forms in large masses, and its transparency varies from translucent to transparent, depending on the crystal's composition and the presence of inclusions.

In terms of luster, trolleite is commonly described as having a greasy appearance, with a subdued shine even when polished.

The stone's color is influenced by the presence of dark blue minerals like lazulite. The hardness of trolleite varies depending on its specific composition. While the bulk of the stone falls within the 5.5 to 6 range on the Mohs hardness scale, the quartz portions are typically closer to 8.5. This variation can determine whether a particular piece of trolleite is suitable for everyday wear or more suitable for high-contact jewelry pieces.


Mineral Information Aluminum phosphate mineral that combines quartz, lazulite, and scorzalite
Chemical Composition Al4(PO4)3(OH)3
Color Light green, colorless, bluish green, (dark blue when included)
Hardness 5 1/2 to 6 (Mohs)
Specific Gravity 3.10
Refractive Index 1.619 – 1.643

Proper Care of Trolleite


Trolleites are generally tough stones, but the best cleaning method is to simply use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not recommended to use harsh chemicals when cleaning trolleite. Be sure to thoroughly dry trolleite jewelry after cleaning to ensure there is no residual moisture that could cause adverse reactions, such as rust in metal settings. Store trolleite jewelry inside a soft cloth or, at least, away from other stones to avoid the risk of scratching this gemstone against a harder stone or scratching a less hard stone.


To learn more about turquoise and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.

Shop for Trolleite

How did you like this resource? Your feedback helps us provide resources that matter to you most.