Prehnite
Prehnite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with notable Chinese occurrences.
About Prehnite
Prehnite belongs to the silicate class in the prehnite group and has the chemical formula Ca2Al2Si3O10(OH)2. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Prehnite typically forms tabular, stalactitic, reniform, botryoidal, massive; crystals often curved or barrel-shaped; fan-shaped aggregates. Its color range is broad, including pale to yellow-green, apple-green, grey, white, colorless, and rarely orange or pink. The luster is vitreous, pearly, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is good on {001}. The fracture is uneven, irregular, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Among collectors of crystallized species, Prehnite is a recognized reference. Documented Chinese occurrences are recorded at Huanggang Fe-Sn deposit and Shizhuyuan Mine, among others.
