Phenakite, Amazonite

Imalo, Andrembesoa, Betafo District, Vakinankaratra, Madagascar

5,9×5,4×3,8 cm. (Phenakite 2,6×1,4×1,3 cm.)

An extremely rare and superb combination from Madagascar, composed of a 2.6 cm well-formed, colorless Phenakite crystal with good luster and a translucent to transparent aspect, aesthetically perched atop the matrix and surrounded by several turquoise Amazonite crystals.

The occurrence of Amazonite and Phenakite in Betafo, Madagascar, particularly within the region’s pegmatitic formations, is quite significant. The Betafo district is known for its rich pegmatite deposits that have produced high-quality crystals of both Amazonite and Phenakite.

Amazonite, a green variety of microcline feldspar, is well-known in this region, often occurring in large, well-formed crystals with a blue-green color. The presence of Amazonite in Betafo is linked to the granitic pegmatites in the area, which are part of a broader geological formation that is rich in rare minerals.

Phenakite, another mineral found in this region, is less common but highly valued by collectors due to its clear, well-defined crystals. The Anjanabonoina pegmatites are particularly noted for yielding some of the finest Phenakite crystals, characterized by their elongated form and clarity. This area is one of the prime localities in Madagascar for these minerals, contributing significantly to the global mineral collection community.

These occurrences are part of the larger economic geology of Madagascar, where pegmatites are known for containing a variety of rare and precious minerals, making the region an important site for mineral exploration and collection.