KUNZITE

Kunzite, a pale pink to lilac gem is a variety of the mineral spodumene. It is named as a tribute to George Kunz, the legendary scholar, gemologist and gem buyer for Tiffany & Co at the turn of the century. The author of The Curious Lore of Precious Stones, Kunz searched the globe for old stories and legends about gems during his quest for new varieties and new deposits.

Kunzite was first found in Connecticut, USA. But the first commercially significant deposit was discovered in 1902 in the Pala region of California, where the Morganite Beryl was also first discovered. Kunzite is often found in conjunction with Morganite and Pink Tourmaline, both other popular pink gemstones. Today most Kunzite are mined in Brazil, Afghanistan, and Madagascar.

The largest faceted Kunzite is an 880ct-specimen on display at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C. Although, stones used in Jewelry are relatively small, Kunzite shows the best color in larger sizes. Stones should be at least ten carats to be really pink.

It is relatively hard, with a hardness of seven just like quartz. However, Kunzite should be handled with care because like a diamond, it has a distinct cleavage which means a sharp blow, if landed in the wrong place can break it in two. itshould also be protected from heat and continued exposure to strong light which can gradually fade its color.

The lithium in Kunzite's chemical composition - LiAl (Si2O6) lithium aluminum silicate - gives it a wonderful pink-violet color that compliments either fall or spring wardrobes. It shows its color well in larger sizes. Since it is a pastel gem, small sizes tend to be very pale. Kunzite needs a certain amount of mass to bring out its color. Keep Kunzite out of direct sun or high heat because it can fade. This fact has earned it the nickname: Evening Stone. Jewelry featuring Kunzite should not be cleaned in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner. Ionic cleaners and/or warm, soapy water and a soft brush are the best ways to clean Kunzite.