Kunzite is the pink to light purple gem variety of the mineral Spodumene. Spodumene is a common mineral, but only in a few select localities does it occur in transparent gem form. One gem form is the pink kunzite, and another gem form is the green hiddenite. Kunzite is a very attractive pink gem, but is notorious for its habit of color fading in strong light. Some deep pink stones have turned nearly colorless from fading. Although the color-fading effect is not this drastic in most kunzite, it is still important not to expose kunzite gems to strong light (especially sunlight) for long periods. Kunzite is sometimes called "evening stone" for this reason. The color of some kunzite can be restored or intensified by irradiation.

The perfect cleavage and splintery fracture of kunzite makes it one of the most difficult gems to cut. It is very sensitive to knocks and will chip if hit too hard. Kunzite is famous for its strong pleochroism, showing lighter and more intense coloring when viewed at different angles. For this reason, it is always cut to show the deepest pink color through the top of the gem. The deeper pink the kunzite, the more valuable it is.

Kunzite was first found in Pala, California, in 1902, and is named after the gemologist George F. Kunz.

USES
Although kunzite is a relatively soft and delicate gem, and can fade after prolonged exposure to light, its appealing color makes it a popular gem. Small gems are seldom cut from kunzite because of its cleavage and strong pleochroism. It is rarely seen in rings, necklaces, or any other forms of jewelry where small stones are required. It is most often used as a pendant stone and as a large decorating stone on ornamental objects.

SYNONYMS
Evening Stone

FALSE NAMES
Rose Kunzite - Synthetic, laboratory-grown pink sapphire

SIMILAR GEMSTONES
Kunzite is very similar to rose quartz and morganite, and may also resemble spinel, topaz, and tourmaline.

ALSO SEE

• The mineral Spodumene
• The gemstone Spodumene
• The gemstone Hiddenite

PICTURES

Special thanks to Gem Hut for most of our gem images. The gems displayed or others like them can be purchased through Gem Hut by clicking the link below each picture.

Picture: Pink Kunzite
Size: 3.90 ct.
Cut: Oval
Gem: Gem Hut

Picture: Peach colored Kunzite
Size: 4.99 ct.
Cut: Cushion
Gem: Gem Hut

Picture: Pale pink Kunzite
Size: 3.36 ct.
Cut: Oval
Gem: Gem Hut