Ekanite
A variety of Minerals
What is Ekanite?
Ekanite is an uncommon silicate mineral with chemical formula Ca2ThSi8O20 or (Ca,Fe,Pb)2(Th,U)Si8O20. It is a member of the steacyite group. It is among the few gemstones that are naturally radioactive. Most ekanite is mined in Sri Lanka, although deposits also occur in Russia and North America. Clear and well-colored stones are rare as the radioactivity tends to degrade the crystal matrix over time in a process known as metamictization. The type locality is Eheliyagoda, Ratnapura District, Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka, where it was first described in 1955 by F. L. D. Ekanayake, a Sri Lankan scientist, and it is named after him. In Sri Lanka the mineral specimens occur as detrital pebbles. In the Tombstone Mountains of Yukon, Canada, the mineral is found in a syenitic glacial erratic boulder. In the Alban Hills of Italy it is found in volcanic ejecta.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.593-1.596
- Birefringence
- 0.001
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Ekanite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Ekanite Localities Map
See where Ekanite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Green in various shades, straw-yellow, dark red, colourless
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5
- Density
- 3.36 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ca2ThSi8O20
- Elements
- Ca, O, Si, Th
Identify Ekanite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Ekanite FAQs
How do I identify Ekanite?
Ekanite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Green in various shades color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Ekanite?
Ekanite typically appears in Green in various shades, straw-yellow, dark red, colourless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Ekanite?
Ekanite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
