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Spodumene

Retro 70ct. Kunzite Ring with Bold Gold Mount.
Retro 70ct. Kunzite Ring with Bold Gold Mount.

The name spodumene derives from the Greek meaning burnt to ashes describing the non-gem colorless or gray variety of spodumene. There are two varieties of spodumene considered “gem quality”; hiddenite and kunzite.

Gemological Information for Spodumene

Color:Yellowish Green, Pink-Violet, Colorless
Crystal Structure:Monoclinic
Refractive Index:Monoclinic
Durability:Poor
Hardness:6 to 7
Family:Spodumene
Similar Stones:Tourmaline, Kornerupine, Phenakite, Peridot, Beryl
Treatments:Irradiation
Country of Origin:Madagascar, Brazil, Afganistan, U.S.

Spodumene Care

Ultrasonic Cleaning:Never
Steam Cleaning:Never
Warm Soapy Water:Safe
Chemical Attack:Hydrofluoric Acid
Light Sensitivity:Kunzite Fades, Irradiated Green Quickly Fades
Heat Sensitivity:Sensitive to High Temperatures

Sources

  • Gem Reference Guide, Los Angeles: Gemological Institute of America, 1988. Pp. 229-231.
  • Newman, Harold. An Illustrated Dictionary of Jewelry, New York: Thames and Hudson, 1981. Pp. 287.
  • Schumann, Walter. Gemstones of the World, New York: Sterling Publishing, Co., 1977. Pp. 114.
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