Ekanite
Ekanite has long held a special place among collectors of rare gemstones. First discovered in Sri Lanka and named after the gem dealer F. L. D. Ekanayake, the species quickly gained attention for a remarkable characteristic: unlike most faceted gems, Ekanite contains trace amounts of thorium and uranium that make it very slightly radioactive. While this feature is often mentioned with curiosity, the level of radioactivity present in cut stones is extremely low and poses no practical risk, making it more of an intriguing scientific footnote than a concern.
Fine facetable material is scarce, and well-cut examples have become increasingly difficult to obtain in recent years. Much of the material recovered historically was either included or structurally compromised, so transparent pieces suitable for cutting were always uncommon. For those interested in unusual minerals that cross the boundaries between gemology and geology, Ekanite remains one of the classic and most recognizable rarities in the world of faceted stones.
