Enstatite

Facetable enstatite is relatively rare, and stones above a few carats with good clarity and color are uncommon. Carat weight therefore plays a meaningful role in value for fine, clean stones.

Attractive enstatite shows medium-toned, warm brown, greenish or golden hues with some internal brightness. Overly dark, muddy or gray stones are less desirable, though unusual color variants can attract niche interest.

High-quality enstatite should be eye-clean; visible inclusions can easily dull the stone's modest brilliance. Because rough is often included, clean stones of notable size are relatively rare.

Cutting must navigate cleavage and brittleness, favoring simple shapes like ovals and cushions. Well-proportioned mixed cuts with good polish can enhance enstatite's subtle brilliance, while poor cutting produces lifeless stones.

Enstatite occurs in ultramafic rocks and meteorites, but gem-quality material is mined on a small scale in localities such as Tanzania and Myanmar. Production is limited and sporadic, often arising as a by-product of other gem mining.

Demand is niche and collector-driven, with some interest among designers looking for unusual earthy tones. Enstatite competes with more available stones like andalusite and tourmaline in the same color space.

Market interest in enstatite has remained modest but stable, with prices influenced more by rarity than by broad consumer demand.