Ekanite (Rough) — Type Locality, Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka

Ekanite is among the rarest minerals in the world, a calcium thorium silicate first described in 1953 from alluvial gem gravels in the Ratnapura District of Sri Lanka — the only locality where it has been found in collectable quality. Named in honour of F.L.D. Ekanayake, the Sri Lankan gem dealer who first recognized it as something unusual, it was formally approved as a new mineral species in 1955. The mineral is heavily metamict in virtually all natural examples: the thorium content, typically around 28% ThO₂, produces sustained alpha radiation that progressively destroys the crystal lattice over geological time, leaving a glassy, isotropic mass where an ordered silicate once existed. This self-irradiation renders the material naturally green to olive-green, a colour caused by radiation damage to the structure rather than by trace impurities.

Specimens of ekanite from the type locality are exceptionally scarce in the collector market. This rough piece is offered as a geological curiosity of the highest order — a self-metamict thorium silicate from the single locality responsible for all known fine ekanite. Suitable for advanced radioactive mineral collections or as a companion to faceted material. Will be shipped with appropriate documentation.

Radioactive. Canada domestic shipping only.

Approx. size: 22mm x 13mm x 05mm

Approx. weight: 2.11 grams

Approx. activity on an SE International Ranger EXP: 9800 CPM