mineral

Kunzite

Spodumene (LiAlSi2O6)

Hardness: 6.5–7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to violet/lilac; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal System: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect longitudinal; Specific Gravity: 3.16–3.20.

Hardness: 6
Color: Pink to violet/lilac
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to violet/lilac; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal System: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect longitudinal; Specific Gravity: 3.16–3.20.

Formation & geological history

Formed in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites through hydrothermal processes. Most specimens date from the Phanerozoic eon.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry and as a sought-after mineral specimen for collectors. It is also an ore of lithium.

Geological facts

Kunzite was first discovered in 1902 and named after George Frederick Kunz, the chief gemologist for Tiffany & Co. It is known for its strong pleochroism, showing different colors when viewed from different angles.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive lilac color and strong longitudinal striations on crystal faces. It is common in pegmatite districts like those in Afghanistan, Brazil, and California (USA). Note: Colors can fade if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.