Prehnite properties

Its name, prehnite, was bestowed by Abraham Gottlob Werner in 1813 as a tribute to the Dutch commander Hendrik Von Prehn, whom he believed to have discovered the mineral.
However, history reveals a different reality: the oldest description of this stone dates back to 1771 by Balthazar Georges Sage, who named it Cape Chrysolite. Thus, prehnite stands out as the first stone to be named after a person, underscoring its historical significance and enduring fascination through the ages.

Prehnite belongs to the silicate group, where calcium and aluminum are its main constituents, although occasionally a portion of the aluminum can be replaced by iron (up to a maximum of 7%). Its distinctive structure most commonly appears in the form of masses adorned with fibrous spherolites that elegantly radiate, accompanied by magnificent tabular crystals emerging in striking crests.

Prehnite distinguishes itself with a color palette ranging from green to yellow, offering a translucency that lends its reflections a subtle and mysterious aura. At times, its resemblance to jade is so striking that it can serve as a brilliant substitute. Recently, a rare variety with an orange hue has been unearthed in South Africa and Canada, further expanding the fascinating diversity of this gemstone.

Prehnite is known by a variety of names, reflecting its diversity and presence in different regions of the world. It is sometimes called Adelite, Aedelite, Bostrichite, Chiltonite, Cape Chrysolite, Coupholite, Prehnitoid, Schorl in sheaves, Copper Zeolite, or Sparkling Zeolite. In South Africa, it is sometimes referred to as Cape Emerald, while in China, it is known as Grape Jade (Putao Yu), highlighting its popularity and significance in the culture and geological history of these regions.

Mines: South Africa, France, the USA, India, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Spain.

History, legends and beliefs about prehnite

Prehnite was revered by the Aboriginal peoples of Australia, who believed in its unique power to absorb and retain the energy of the sun. According to their ancestral beliefs, this energy was released during the night, providing warmth and protection against the mysterious creatures of darkness. Thus, prehnite was more than just a stone to them; it was a vital link to the forces of nature and a benevolent guardian of the Australian nights.

In South Africa, prehnite held a special place in shamanic practices, where shamans regarded it as a precious tool for facilitating informed and wise decision-making for the benefit of the entire community. They believed that prehnite possessed innate wisdom, acting as a spiritual guide to illuminate the path toward just and harmonious choices, thereby strengthening the bond between individuals and their community.

Healing properties and benefits of prehnite

Prehnite is renowned for its versatile healing properties:

• For those struggling with acne, it offers promising results, soothing skin inflammations and promoting clearer, balanced skin.
• In cases of asthma, it acts as a comforting aid, helping to soothe the respiratory passages and facilitate breathing.
• It serves as a soothing remedy for excessive anxiety, relieving tensions that sometimes manifest as various physical ailments.
• For the digestive system, prehnite promotes digestion, reduces hyperacidity, and alleviates symptoms of gastritis, providing welcome relief.
• Recommended for backaches such as sciatica and lumbago, as well as abdominal pain, it offers effective and long-lasting relief.
• It helps alleviate problems such as gout, anemia, and kidney disorders, bringing much-needed respite to those suffering from them.
• In cases of shoulder pain and chest discomfort, prehnite proves to be a valuable ally, providing targeted and soothing relief.

Prehnite jewelry samples