Kunzite

Kunzite is a gem variety of the mineral spodumene. Its distinctive color ranges from pale pink to violet, with the most prized specimens displaying a vivid, saturated hue. This coloration is due to the presence of trace amounts of manganese. Kunzite is known for its strong pleochroism, meaning it appears to have different colors when viewed from different angles. The most intense color is typically seen when looking parallel to the crystal's c-axis. It is a relatively hard gemstone, rating 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for jewelry, though it requires some care to prevent chipping. The largest and finest kunzite crystals are found in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Brazil, and the United States. The gemstone was named after George Frederick Kunz, a renowned American mineralogist and gemologist, who first described it in 1902. Kunzite is often faceted to maximize its color and brilliance, and it is popular for rings, pendants, and earrings. It is also sometimes found in larger sizes, making it an attractive option for statement pieces.