Phenakite, also spelled phenacite, is named for the Greek word for "the deceptor" for its superficial resemblence to quartz. While chemically phenakite is more akin to beryl, it differs from beryl in its lack of aluminum in its crystal structure. Its adamantine lustered surface feels slick (at least as pronounced as danburite). Phenakite has very similar thermal inertial properties to diamond and moissanite, and for this reason, thermal inertia diamond testers (the most commonly employed type) usually respond to phenakite with a (false) positive reading. That is, most diamond testers read phenakite as diamond.

One of the highest vibration minerals, phenakite is an intensely spiritually active crystal. It augments the energy of any other stone with which it is held as well as that of the holder. Metaphysically, phenakite is a powerful mineral that emits very strong vibrations. It can be used to train us to the presence of higher vibrations, that we may raise our own vibrations. It is said to be a potent third eye activator, and to be very useful with the crown chakra as well. Many believe that it can be very helpful in the process of accessing any higher level.

Phenakite is widely employed by psychics, mediums, ascencionists, reiki practitioners, and practitioners of magic. It is said emit some of the highest-energy vibrations of all discovered minerals, and its level of action at the 3rd eye and crown chakras make it a very useful tool for those engaged in any sort of spiritual self-development. Some people feel overwhelmed at first by the energy of this mineral, and if you find that such is the case for yourself, using it in conjunction with a grounding mineral, such as hematite or black tourmaline, may alleviate some of the spaciness associated with this mineral.

Phenakite is found in a handful of locales around the world, and each geographical region lends its own "spin" to the energy of crystals from that locale. Brazilian material, for examble, is said by many to be gentle and non-jolting, and I find this to be the case. Then energy field is spherical and warm, gradually fading into the envireonment around it. If you are new to phenakite and/or highly sensitive to mineral energy, Brazilian material may be a good starting point.

Russian phenakite is less available as fully formed crystals, and can more often be found in shards or chips.