Phenacite is principally transparent, but seldom translucent or opaque gemstone, which is very similar to Beryl. However, just in 1833, the scientists managed to define the difference between these gems. Despite its similarity to Euclase, Phenacite is a radically different stone. The color of this gemstone is inferior compared to Euclase. The color of its crystals usually possesses a slight rose, brown, or wine-yellow inclining to a red tint. Similar to its rival Euclase, Phenacite is incredibly rare.

Name

The name of Phenacite (Phenakite) derived from Greek "phenax" means "deceiver." This name is because people usually take it for other precious stones, such as Diamond, when Phenacite is colorless.

Deposits

The principal deposits of this gem located just in two locations of the world. Russian mines of Phenacite are stretching along the Tokovaya River, in the vicinity of Yekaterinburg, in the Ural Mountains. Here, the crystals of Phenacite occur alongside with Emeralds and Chrysoberyls. Another spot is the Ilmensky Mountains, which also so-called "Ural Switzerland," thanks to their magnificence.

The second known mines of Phenacite are in the United States, Colorado, near Pikes Peak of Mount Antero. Some remarkable specimens of this stone also come from Bald Mountain, near North Chatham, New Hampshire. Other excellent stones arrive from Brazil. It's worth noting that the samples obtained in Russia are the largest ones.

Properties

The crystals of Phenacite possess excellent brilliance that resembles a borderline between Diamond and Rock Crystal. The difference between Phenacite and Quartz is in its double-refraction and higher refractive index. On the subject of the shine and brilliance of Phenacite, it's almost equal to Diamond. However, this stone is inferior to the latter in other properties. The hardness of Phenacite is 7,5-8/10, according to the Mohs Scale of Hardness. This indicator is less than that of Diamond, however, is superior to Quartz. As a result, we can regard Phenacite as the semi-precious stone of the first grade.

Phenacite in Jewelry

Like its rival Euclase, Phenacite rarely met in jewelry. However, the jewelry made of this gem can boast with its exclusivity and rarity. So, you're a happy buyer if you managed to purchase the natural Phenacite. As a rule, all the unique specimens of this stone are in the private collections despite its rank in the classification.