Loading...

Kunzite

Kunzite, Diamond Ring.
Kunzite, Diamond Ring.

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.
Close Menu
×