Hardness: 7.00
Refractive Index: 1.66-1.67
Specific Gravity: 3.17
Birthstone: February
Astral Stone:
Anniversary Stone:
Origination: Brazil, Myanmar, Madagascar, Afghanistan and the United States.
Care & Cleaning: Some gem experts believe that kunzite can fade in direct sunlight, although others dispute these claims. Neither side can lay claim to any kind of scientific victory as of now. Clean kunzite with a soft polishing cloth, plain water rinse mild solution of soap & water. Do not soak.
Fiction, Facts & Folklore:
Kunzite is the pink-violet variety of the mineral group spodumene.
It was named after the famed gemologist G.F. Kunz who first observed a find in 1902, at the Pala Chief mine near San Diego, California.
It is brother to another rather obscure spodumene, the hiddenite.
Kunzite has perfect cleavage, which means it is subject to cracking and splitting if not faceted correctly.
California remains a secondary source for kunzite even today.
Brazil was considered the most important source for kunzite, but today these finds are at the brink of extinction.
Afghanistan is now its most significant source.
A large kunzite gem of 30 centimeters is currently on display at the Museum of Natural Sciences in Houston, Texas.
Kunzite is most often found in mountainous regions in conjunction with hiddenite, the yellow-green variety of spodumene.
Most gem craftsmen agree that kunzite is among the most difficult gems to facet.
Although it is generally found in pockets, it is not uncommon for kunzite to yield large chunks of rough.
Gemologists agree that the properties of kunzite are best viewed in natural light.
Folklore tells us that dreaming of kunzite will bring a new life into the world.
Kunzite is believed to bring good fortune to those who wear it.
Certain cultures believe it to be a symbol of goodness and virtue.