Kunzite

Real mineral · rare · LiAlSi₂O₆

Pink to violet spodumene coloured by manganese. Named after gemologist George Frederick Kunz. Displays strong pleochroism and phosphorescence. Prone to colour fading on prolonged exposure to strong sunlight.

Identity

Formula

LiAlSi₂O₆

Chemical class

silicate

Mineral group

Aegirine, Diopside, Enstatite, Hiddenite, Jade

Also known as

Pink spodumene, Lilac spodumene

Crystallography

Crystal system

monoclinic

Habits

prismatic, tabular

Fracture

subconchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

7

Density

3.18 g/cm³

Luster

vitreous

Colors

pink, violet, pale purple

Streak

white

Transparency

transparent

Geology

Origins

igneous

Host rocks

pegmatite

Associated minerals

Tourmaline, Beryl, Quartz, feldspar

Geography

Afghanistan, Brazil, USA, Madagascar, Pakistan

Classification

Rarity

rare

Gem quality

Yes

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