Prehnite Gemstone
Prehnite
There are hundreds of mineral are have their names after individual, and including numbers of gemstones. But there is one gemstone that has the distinction of being the very first mineral ever named after an individual. The gemstone Prehnite was named for its discoverer, Colonel Hendrik von Prehn (1733-1785), a Dutch mineralogist and an early governor of the Cape of Good Hope colony. Prehnite was also the very first mineral to be named and described from South Africa, long before South Africa became an important source for precious gems.
Prehnite is a hydrated calcium aluminum silicate that occurs in a soft yellow-green to apple-green color. Many specimens have an intriguing luminous quality. It has a vitreous to mother-of-pearl luster. Prehnite is usually cut as cabochons or carved. Specimens displaying the cat’s-eye effect are known but rare. Recently some green translucent to transparent material has been faceted, producing a new look for prehnite that has become popular for jewelry.
Prehnite is a stone of unconditional love. It is said to connect to the archangel Raphael. Prehnite enhances inner knowledge, showing the path forward to spiritual growth through atonement to divine energy. Moreover, Prehnite is said to calm the environment and to bring peace and protection. Its serene energy is said to be beneficial for hyperactive children.
Until recently, prehnite was a rare gemstone, but new deposits have made it more available. While you are unlikely to find it in your local jewelry store, gemstone dealers often have some supply. Deposits are found in South Africa, Australia, China, Scotland and the United States.