What is kunzite made of?
Kunzite is composed of lithium, aluminum and silicate. Kunzite crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. Its prismatic crystal structure results in a distinct pleochroism which can be helpful in identifying kunzite. Kunzite exhibits perfect cleavage, a trait it shares with both diamond and topaz.
Does kunzite contain lithium?
Spodumene is a pyroxene mineral consisting of lithium aluminium inosilicate, LiAl(SiO3)2, and is a source of lithium. It occurs as colorless to yellowish, purplish, or lilac kunzite (see below), yellowish-green or emerald-green hiddenite, prismatic crystals, often of great size.
What mineral is kunzite?
mineral spodumene
– Robert Weldon Kunzite is the light pink to violetish purple variety of the mineral spodumene. It’s found in Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, and the US state of California. The gem was named after pioneering gemologist George Frederick Kunz (1856-1932). Kunzite has two perfect cleavage directions.
What is the chemical formula for spodumene?
LiAlSi₂O₆
Spodumene/Chemical formula
What is lithium concentrate?
Lithium concentrate is similar to powder in that it is made up of minute, dry particles of pure substance. Concentrate is also useful in any application where high surface areas are desired such as water treatment and in fuel cell and solar applications. Nanoparticles also produce very high surface areas.
How can you tell a real Kunzite?
Kunzite is pleochroic, which means it can display different colors in different crystal directions. Kunzite displays its best, most intense color down the length of its crystals. Kunzite crystals often have relatively few inclusions, so “clean” finished gems in jewelry are common.
Is kunzite a valuable stone?
Large, well-cut pieces can definitely be more expensive, but the per carat price of kunzite tends to increase slowly with size when compared with sapphire or ruby. Fine kunzite in smaller sizes – under 5 carats – often sells for about $10.00 a carat, while stones over 10 carats may sell for $15 to $20 per carat.
What stone is similar to kunzite?
Similar Gemstones Morganite and pink Tourmaline – Similar in color but greater hardness. Topaz – Greater in hardness, usually in a darker pink color tone.
What is kunzite stone?
Kunzite is the best-known variety of the mineral spodumene. It’s named after famed gemologist George Frederick Kunz, who was the first to identify it as a unique variety of spodumene. Kunzite gets its delicate color from trace amounts of manganese. California’s San Diego County is an important source of kunzite.
What does kunzite stone mean?
According to metaphysical beliefs, kunzite is a stone deeply connected to the heart and love. A joyful stone, kunzite opens and connects the heart with the mind, encouraging communion between the two. While wearing kunzite, it is thought you are better able to experience and reciprocate love.
What kind of crystal is Kunzite made of?
Kunzite is usually found in granitic pegmatites, often with Feldspar, Muscovite, Quartz, and Lepidolite. It’s named after G.F. Kunz who first discovered the mineral in 1902.
Why was the Kunzite Stone named after George Kunz?
Kunzite can fade with prolonged exposure to strong light. Kunzite crystals typically have irregular terminations. Kunzite is the best-known variety of the mineral spodumene. It’s named after famed gemologist George Frederick Kunz, who was the first to identify it as a unique variety of spodumene.
What are the different types of Kunzite spodumene?
Blue Kunzite – Light blue to bluish green transparent form of Spodumene. Yellow Kunzite – Yellow transparent form of Spodumene. Rose Kunzite – Synthetic pink Sapphire. Most Kunzite in its natural form is very light in color. It is commonly heat treated to intensify its color and remove brownish tones.
What kind of treatment is used for kunzite?
Kunzite is known for its lovely pink color that is very distinct. However, its color may slightly fade upon prolonged exposure to sunlight. Heat treatment is sometimes applied to Spodumene, by transforming transparent brownish and greenish-brown stones into light green or pink colors.