What is prehnite and what does it look like?

Prehnite is a calcium aluminum phyllosilicate with the formula Ca2Al2Si3O10(OH)2 that crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. It is known for its distinctive pale green to yellow-green color and translucent, glassy-to-waxy luster that gives polished specimens an almost grape-like, botryoidal appearance. Prehnite registers 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale.

Where does prehnite come from?

Major prehnite sources include Mali (prized for gem-quality translucent botryoidal specimens), Australia, South Africa (the original discovery locality), China, and the United States. Mali specimens are particularly valued for exceptional translucency and saturated green color.

What is prehnite with epidote?

Prehnite frequently forms in association with epidote, a dark green to black mineral. When epidote crystals are included within translucent prehnite, they create some of the most visually dramatic specimens in the mineral world — dark needles or clusters suspended in a glowing green translucent matrix.

Is prehnite suitable for jewelry?

Yes. At Mohs 6 to 6.5, prehnite is reasonably durable for most jewelry applications including pendants, earrings, and bracelets. It is slightly softer than quartz, so rings should be worn with care. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush.

Prehnite Crystals | Green Specimens & Jewelry

Q: Why is prehnite historically significant?

Prehnite was the first mineral ever named after a person. Dutch military officer Colonel Hendrik Von Prehn brought specimens back from the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa in the late 18th century, and the mineral was formally described in 1788.

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Prehnite Crystals

Prehnite is a calcium aluminum phyllosilicate with the formula Ca₂Al₂Si₃O₁₀(OH)₂, crystallizing in the orthorhombic system. It is known for its distinctive pale green to yellow-green color and a translucent, glassy-to-waxy luster that gives polished specimens an almost grape-like, botryoidal appearance. Prehnite registers 6–6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it reasonably durable for jewelry and decorative use. Major sources include Mali, Australia, South Africa, China, and the United States.

Prehnite holds a notable place in mineralogical history: it was the first mineral to be named after a person. Dutch military officer Colonel Hendrik Von Prehn brought specimens back from the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa in the late 18th century, and the mineral was formally described in 1788. Among collectors, prehnite is valued for its soft, luminous green color and its frequent association with epidote — dark green to black epidote crystals included within translucent prehnite create some of the most visually dramatic specimens in the mineral world. Fine botryoidal prehnite from Mali is particularly sought after for its gem-quality translucency.

Available forms include polished freeforms, palm stones, tumbled stones, bracelets, and raw specimens. For green mineral comparisons, see our green aventurine, malachite, and chrysocolla collections. Explore collector-grade translucent pieces in the Collector's Edition. Free shipping on orders $150+.

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09/06/2026

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09/04/2026

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09/04/2026

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09/04/2026