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1.45 ct PHENAKITE - MYANMAR
SKU: PHEN0001 | Location: Vault 1
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Phenakite is the ultimate "deceiver" of the gemstone world, and it is a stone I have always held in high regard for its sheer brilliance. It is a beryllium silicate that is so clear and has such a high refractive index that it was frequently mistaken for Quartz or even Diamond in the early days of mineralogy. I have always found Phenakite to possess a "cold," electric energy; its transparency is often so absolute that a well-cut stone seems to disappear into the light. While it lacks the fire of a Diamond, its luster is piercing and its hardness makes it a formidable contender for high-end jewelry. For the collector, Phenakite represents the pinnacle of beryllium minerals—a stone that doesn't need color to command attention, relying instead on its structural purity and its ability to outshine almost everything else in the vault.
The Heritage & Discovery
Historical Significance: Phenakite has a long history of being the "undercover" gem. Historically, it was often found alongside Emerald and Chrysoberyl in the Ural Mountains, where it was frequently dismissed as common Quartz until its unique properties were identified. It represents a specific type of pegmatitic and hydrothermal crystallization where beryllium is present without the chromium or vanadium needed to make Emerald. In the world of rare gems, it is prized for its extreme clarity and its association with some of the most famous gemstone localities on Earth.
Discovery: The mineral was officially named in 1833 by Nils Gustaf Nordenskiöld. He chose the name from the Greek word phenax , meaning "deceiver," because of its uncanny ability to mimic Quartz. His discovery allowed mineralogists to finally categorize this high-order silicate correctly, separating it from the more common minerals it had been hiding among for centuries.
Important Mines: The historic Emerald mines of the Ural Mountains in Russia remain the legendary source for large, museum-quality Phenakite crystals. However, in recent years, Nigeria and Madagascar have produced incredible, water-clear crystals that have redefined the market for faceted stones. I also have a high regard for the specimens from Mount Antero in Colorado, USA, which are highly sought after by mineral collectors. I prioritize the Nigerian and Russian material for the vault, as they provide the size and clarity necessary to create truly breathtaking, large-scale faceted gems.
Mineralogical Profile
Description: Phenakite is a beryllium silicate that crystallizes in the trigonal system (rhombohedral). It sits at a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale , making it exceptionally hard and durable, perfect for any jewelry application. It is characterized by its vitreous luster and its typically colorless appearance, though it can occasionally be found in pale yellow, pink, or brown tints.
One of its most identifying features is its high refractive index (n \approx 1.65 to 1.67), which is significantly higher than Quartz, giving it a much sharper "snap" and brilliance when faceted. Its crystals often form as rhombohedrons or long, slender prisms with complex terminations. Unlike many other beryllium minerals, Phenakite is often found with remarkably few internal inclusions, allowing for the creation of "loupe-clean" gems that act as perfect prisms for white light.
Chemical Formula: Be 2 SiO 4
Gemstone Specifications
| Gem Variety | Phenakite |
| Origin | Myanmar |
| Weight | 1.45 carats |
| Color | White/Colorless |
| Dimensions | 9.10 mm x 5.10 mm x 3.90 mm |
| Shape | Emerald |
| Treatment | No treatment |
| Certificate | On Request |
Verified history from our original eBay account.
Secure Global Logistics To ensure total legal compliance and security for high-value assets, all logistics are managed by my authorized agent in Bangkok: Asama James (Business Reg: 3100905529191).
- Origin: Items are dispatched directly from our secure facility in Bangkok, Thailand.
- Dispatch Time: We ship within 1-3 business days of cleared payment.
- Combined Shipping: We offer combined shipping for multiple acquisitions. Please request a "Combined Invoice" before completing payment to receive your shipping discount.
- Customs & Duties: International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, or VAT charged by their destination country. These are not included in the item or shipping price.
100% Collector Satisfaction Guarantee I stand behind the scientific accuracy and quality of every stone in the vault.
- Returns: We accept returns within 30 days of receipt.
- Condition: The gemstone must be returned in its original, unaltered condition.
- Resolution: If you encounter any issues with your acquisition, please message me directly. My goal is to work out a solution that ensures you are 100% satisfied with your experience.
Secure Payment. We accept all major payment methods through eBay's secure checkout system, including Credit Cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Personal Verification & Certification
- Identity: Every stone is personally inspected by me. I take scientific accuracy seriously; however, with hundreds of species in the vault, I remain open to professional dialogue and corrections from fellow gemologists.
- Laboratory Certification: For "Investment Grade" stones, certifications from world-renowned labs (AIGS, GRS, etc.) can be obtained upon request.
- Note: Lab processing can take up to 2 months.
- Costs: The buyer covers lab fees; a copy of the official laboratory invoice will be provided for transparency.
- Visual Accuracy: We utilize professional macro-photography to reveal the "soul" of the gem. While monitor settings may vary, we strive for 100% visual fidelity to the stone's true appearance.
Welcome to Freakingcat's Private Vault
20 Years of Expertise | 15,600+ Positive Reviews | 100% Feedback
Known to the eBay community since 2003 as Freakingcat, I have spent two decades curated a premier private collection of rare minerals. Now based in Bangkok, Thailand—the heart of the gem trade—I am offering these hand-selected specimens to you directly.
Note on our New Account: eBay policies prevent me from transferring my historical feedback to this Thai-based venture. While our score starts fresh, my legacy of trust remains.
Secure & Professional: To ensure full legal compliance and global shipping reliability, all logistics are managed by my trusted agent and partner of 20 years, Asama James (Business Reg: 3100905529191).
The account is new; the passion and expertise are 20 years deep. Welcome to the Vault.