Russian phenakite is a rare, transparent gemstone known for its high brilliance and hardness, often mistaken for diamonds due to its exceptional clarity and bright sparkle. Found primarily in the Ural Mountains of Russia, phenakite crystals are typically colorless. It's highly sought after by collectors and jewelers for its rarity and ability to take a high polish. Because of its hardness (7.5-8 on the Mohs scale), phenakite is durable enough for various jewelry settings, making it a prized stone in specialized collections.