Kunzite, a variety of spodumene, was named for George F. Kunz, who was the first to describe this gem in 1902. Gem kunzite is a rose-violet color with strong pleochroism. Occurring as large crystal specimens, kunzite can be fashioned into generously sized gemstones. Crystals tend to be relatively inclusion-free but having two cleavage directions makes cutting difficult, and aligning the rough with the correct crystal orientation is vital; otherwise, the finished gem could be colorless. Kunzite is subject to fading when exposed to strong light and cracking if exposed to heat.
As a member of the spodumene family, kunzite is joined there by hiddenite (green) and triphane (yellow) gemstones.
Gemological Information for Kunzite
| Color: | Pink, Violet and Pink-Violet |
| Crystal Structure: | Monoclinic |
| Refractive Index: | 1.660 to 1.676 |
| Durability: | Poor |
| Hardness: | 6 to 7 |
| Family: | Spodumene |
| Similar Stones: | Pink Sapphire, Tourmaline, Pink Topaz |
| Treatments: | Irradiation |
| Country of Origin: | Madagascar, US, Brazil & Myanmar |
Kunzite Care
| Ultrasonic Cleaning: | Never |
| Steam Cleaning: | Never |
| Warm Soapy Water: | Safe |
| Chemical Attack: | Hydrofluoric Acid Attacks Slowly |
| Light Sensitivity: | Kunzite Fades |
| Heat Sensitivity: | May Cause Color Change |
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. 179.
- Schumann, Walter. Gemstones of the World, New York: Sterling Publishing, Co., 1977. Pp. 114.