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Kunzite:
Inosilicates (Lithium aluminum silicate; pyroxene group) LiAlSi2O6 AKA: Spodumene |
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System: Monoclinic; mostly lathlike flattened crystals with deep groves parallel to the elongation; also cleavage masses, columnar. Appearance: Pink, lilac to violet; vitreous, pearly; streak white. Physical Properties: Hardness: (6.5 - 7.0); Specific gravity: (3.5 - 3.7). Cleavage: good, two directions at nearly right angles; parting frequently prominent in one direction bisecting larger cleavage angle; fracture, uneven, splintery; transparent to translucent; brittle. Similar species: The tough splintery fracture is sufficient to distinguish spodumene from any of the feldspars. Occurrence: Kunzite is found only in granite pegmatites, where it is generally occurs with tourmaline, albite and lepidolite. The Pala district in San Diego Co., California, produces gem-quality kunzite. Fine kunzite has come from California, Maine and Brazil and Madagascar. Miscellaneous: The name is from the Greek spodoumenos, "burnt to ash", in allusion to its ashy color. The occurance of spodumene in the color pink is known as kunzite. Although softer than quartz, kunzite's exquisite color and transparency makes it considerably valuable. Kunzite fades slowly, especially upon exposure to sunlight. Kunzite is popularly cut into faceted gems. Conventional Wisdom: Kunzite worn over the heart chakra can send penetrating energy through emotional blockages and cause the wearer to experience the purity of his or her inner heart. Powerful, high level stone. Strengthens healers, teachers. Opens the emotional heart and spiritual heart. Creates balance between heart and mind, clears emotional blockages. In meditation can balance negative emotional and troubled mental states. This mineral promotes maturity in thought and action, while allowing one to maintain the openness of a child. Belongs to the Astrological Signs of Scorpio, Taurus and Leo. |