Kunzite Gemstone
Physical properties of Kunzite
Chemical Formula: LiAlSi2O6
Color: Pink, Purple
Hardness: 6.5 – 7
Crystal System: Monoclinic
Refractive Index: 1.66 – 1.68
Specific gravity: 3.1 – 3.2
Transparency: Transparent
Double Refraction: .015
Luster: Vitreous
Cleavage: 1, 2 – prismatic
Mineral Class: Spodumene
Occurrence: The sources of Kunzite are Brazil, Pakistan, Mozambique, Afghanistan, Madagascar, and the U.S. (Maine and California).
Astrological properties of Kunzite
Birthstone Month: September is the month which is associated with Kunzite gemstone
Zodiac sign: Leo, Scorpio, and Taurus are the zodiac sign which are associated with Kunzite gemstone.
Introduction
Kunzite is the light purple to pink gemstone variety of the mineral Spodumene and Spodumene is a common mineral, but only in many localities does it occur in transparent gem type. The main gem type of Spodumene is Kunzite; the other is the Hiddenite which is rarer. Colourless and yellow gem types of Spodumene also exist, but are not commonly cut as gemstones. Kunzite has a beautiful pink color and is becoming very popular in the gemstone market. It is a relatively recent and new gemstone, having been first discovered in the middle of 20th century.
Kunzite is a very attractive and popular pink gemstone. Although the color-fading property is very slow, many people still prefer to wear jewelry in which kunzite is used in the evening to avoid sunlight and heat exposure. Its deposits are quite extensive and produce large quantity of this gemstone, thus making it very affordable and accessible. Flawless and extremely large crystals of Kunzite have been found, and these can produce flawless and very large faceted gemstones. The splintery fracture and perfect cleavage of Kunzite makes it a difficult gemstone to cut. It is very sensitive to the process of knocking and will chip if hit too hard. It is known for its strong pleochroism, showing more intense and lighter coloring when viewed at different angles.
Uses and Healing properties of Kunzite
Although Kunzite is a relatively delicate and soft gem, and can be fade after prolonged exposure to light, its color is very unique and appealing and makes it a popular gem. Small gemstones are not commonly cut from Kunzite because of its strong pleochroism and cleavage. It is most often used as a large decorating stone, as a pendant stone and on ornamental objects. It is not commonly used in necklaces, rings or other jewelry items where small gemstones are required. Less transparent gemstones are sometimes cut into beads and cabochons. This gemstone is also referred to as the “evening” stone because of its sensitivity to excess heat and direct sunlight. This is believed to help one understanding and interact with other people, and to enhance the wearer’s ability for devotion. It is also said to be a providing liberation from anger, strong stress reliever, worry and anxiety. Physically, it is believed to aid in the treatment of lung disorders and help strengthen the circulatory system.
Varieties of Kunzite gemstone
Blue Kunzite: Bluish green to light blue transparent form of mineral Spodumene.
Yellow Kunzite: Yellow transparent form of mineral Spodumene.
False Names of this gemstone: Rose Kunzite – Synthetic pink Sapphire.
Kunzite gemstone enhancement and treatment
Mostly, Kunzite gemstone is very light in color in its natural form. It is commonly heat treated to remove brownish tones and intensify its color.
