Kunzite

Kunzite is a delicate pink-to-lilac gemstone from the spodumene mineral family. It is known for its pleochroism, appearing in different shades depending on the angle of the gemstone and the light source. Named after gemologist George Frederick Kunz, who first identified it in 1902, kunzite is prized for its brilliant transparency. However, it is sensitive to light and may fade over a longer period if exposed to prolonged heat or sunlight.

Chemical Composition: Lithium aluminum inosilicate (LiAlSi2O6)

Crystal System: Monoclinic

Refractive Index: 1.66 to 1.68

Specific Gravity: 3.18

Double Refraction: 0.015

Mohs Hardness: 7

Lustre: Vitreous

Kunzite is primarily sourced from Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States, with notable deposits in California’s San Diego County. The finest kunzite specimens typically originate from Afghanistan and Brazil, where the most vivid pink and lilac hues are found.

Kunzite is not ideal for engagement rings as its colour can fade when exposed to prolonged sunlight. Kunzite is better suited for rings, earrings, and pendants that will be worn occasionally rather than every day, like an engagement ring.

Kunzite’s value is determined by its colour, clarity, size, and origin. The most valuable kunzites display a deep, vivid pink-to-lilac hue without a brown or grey undertone. Larger stones with high transparency and minimal inclusions are more desirable, as kunzite is often found in sizeable crystals. Stones from Afghanistan and Brazil often command higher prices due to their richer saturation.

Kunzite is sometimes heat-treated to enhance its pink tones and remove unwanted brownish or yellowish hues. Some stones may also undergo irradiation to deepen their colour, though this is less common. As kunzite is sensitive to light, care should be taken to store it properly to prevent fading.

The rarest kunzite specimens are those with intense, saturated pink hues, sometimes called the 'evening stone' due to their colour stability in low light. Deeply coloured kunzite is challenging to find naturally, making these stones particularly valuable. Larger, high-quality pieces with excellent clarity are also rare and sought after by collectors.

Kunzite is not a traditional or modern birthstone.

Kunzite is often associated with love, emotional healing, and tranquillity. It is believed to open the heart chakra, promoting self-love and deep connections with others. Some traditions link kunzite to calming energies, stress relief, and the enhancement of intuition. Because of its gentle pink hue, it is sometimes gifted as a token of affection.

Natural kunzite often contains minor inclusions, whereas synthetic kunzite is rare but can be produced in a lab. Some imitations, such as pink glass or synthetic spinel, may be sold as kunzite, so purchasing from reputable sources is essential. A professional gemologist can confirm authenticity through gemological testing, including pleochroism analysis and fluorescence under UV light.