# Kunzite

> Kunzite is a soft pink-lilac gem (6.5-7 on Mohs), very luminous but delicate: it chips easily and its color fades in sunlight.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/kunzite/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-09-22
- Updated: 2026-09-22
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/kunzita/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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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](https://www.711grados.com/en/gemstones-in-jewelry/)
- [Amethyst](https://www.711grados.com/en/amethyst/)
- [Morganite](https://www.711grados.com/en/morganite/)