Unakite

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Mottled green (epidote), pink/red (orthoclase feldspar), and clear/gray (quartz); Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Granular, massive; Cleavage: Good in epidote and feldspar; Specific Gravity: 3.2-3.5

Unakite is an altered granite. It forms when granite rock is subjected to hydrothermal alteration, where plagioclase feldspar in the granite is replaced by epidote, and potassium feldspar might be oxidized to pink/red hues. It is typically found in regional metamorphic terrains, often in association with granite intrusions. Geological age varies depending on the original granite and the metamorphic event.

Unakite is primarily used as an ornamental stone. It is commonly fashioned into cabochons, beads, small sculptures, and other lapidary items due to its attractive color combination. It is also used in carvings, tumbling, and as a decorative building material.

Unakite was first discovered in the Unaka Mountains of North Carolina, which is how it got its name. It is sometimes considered a gemstone and is a popular choice for 'healing crystals' or spiritual practices due to its perceived properties of balance and grounding.

In the field, unakite is identified by its distinctive mottled appearance of pistachio green (epidote) and salmon pink to red (orthoclase feldspar), often with colorless or gray quartz. It has a relatively hard and durable nature. It is commonly found in the United States (North Carolina, Virginia), South Africa, Sierra Leone, Brazil, and China. Collectors can look for its characteristic coloring and granular texture. It's often found in river pebbles and glacial deposits as it's quite resistant to weathering.