Background * History
- Prehnite is a translucent to transparent hydrated calcium aluminum silicate. It was first described in 1788 after it was discovered in the Karoo dolerites of Cradock, South Africa. Prehnite was later named after its discoverer, Colonel Hendrik von Prehn (1733-1785), a Dutch mineralogist and an early governor of the Cape of Good Hope colony. Until recently Prehnite was a rare collector’s gemstone, but new deposits have now made it more readily available. In China, Prehnite is sometimes referred to as ‘Grape Jade’ owing to its typical nodule formations which often resemble a bunch of grapes. Its color is usually a soft apple-green, which is quite unique to Prehnite, but it can also occur in rarer colors including yellow, orange and blue. Rare orange Prehnite has been discovered in South Africa. Prehnite occurs in the veins and cavities of volcanic rock. It is a typical product of low-grade metamorphism. Prehnite crystals can sometimes give off water when it is heated. Polished Prehnite has a vitreous to pearly luster. Prehnite may be confused with Apatite, Jade or Serpentine.
Healing * Metaphysical Properties
- Prehnite is a protective stone and it is also known as a stone of prophesy.
- It aids spiritual communication through meditation, visualization and even astral projection.
- It is considered to be a very powerful dream stone.
- It is believed to strengthen life force and energy.
- Prehnite is said to encourage composure, forgiveness and acceptance, therefore it is also excellent for meditation.
- Prehnite helps sufferers of claustrophobia.
- Prehnite is also known as a stone of unconditional love.
- It is believed to connect the will and the heart.
- Those who wear Prehnite can experience strengthened intuition.
- Prehnite is best used for stimulating the third eye chakra.
- Prehnite is often used by crystal healers for treating and alleviating symptoms of gout, anemia, kidney disorders and thymus gland problems.
**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Moirai.si does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
Gemological Properties
| Chemical Composition | Ca2Al(AlSi3O10)(OH)2 |
| Color | yellow-green, brown-yellow, gray, white and colorless |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6-6.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.82-2.94 |
| Refractive Index | 1.611-1.669 |
Origin and Gemstone Sources
- Namibia, South Africa, Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Scotland, France and USA
Care
- Prehnite is considerably hard, but is softer than many other gemstones. It is also brittle and exhibits good cleavage, so care should be taken when setting and cutting it. It can be cleaned very easily using warm soapy water and a soft brush. As with most gemstones, you should not use any household chemicals when caring or cleaning your gemstone or gemstone jewelry. Extreme heat may cause permanent damage to the Prehnite.
- When storing gemstones or gemstone jewelry, store them inside a fabric-lined box or wrapped in a soft cloth separately from other type of gemstones to prevent damage or scratches.
- It is best to remove any jewelry before engaging in any strenuous physical activity, such as exercise or sports.
- Avoid spraying perfume or hairspray on your precious gems.
Zodiac
- Libra, Virgo