Kunzite

Kunzite is the pink-lilac variety of spodumene. It is named after the gemologist George Kunz. Its luminosity is lovely, but it has two weak points: it splits easily and its color fades in sunlight.

Properties #

• Composition: lithium aluminum silicate (spodumene)
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, with perfect cleavage.
• Color: pink, lilac and pale violet.
• Origins: Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar and the USA.
• Treatments: some are irradiated.

Uses in jewelry #

• Earrings and pendants (better than rings).
• Occasion jewelry.
• Collector's pieces.

Pros and cons #

Advantages #

• Luminous, delicate color.
• Cut in large sizes.
• Attractive pleochroism.

Limitations #

• Chips with a knock.
• Fades in sunlight.
• Poorly suited to daily rings.

Care and cleaning #

• Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap.
• Do not use ultrasonic or steam.
• Store in the dark and wrapped.

See also #

• Gemstones in jewelry
• Amethyst
• Morganite