gemstone
Kunzite
Spodumene (Lithium Aluminium Silicate, LiAl(SiO3)2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 6.5-7; pale pink to light purple color; vitreous luster; monoclinic crystal system; distinct cleavage in two directions.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 6.5-7; pale pink to light purple color; vitreous luster; monoclinic crystal system; distinct cleavage in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites through hydrothermal activity during late-stage magmatic crystallization.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry and as an ore mineral for the extraction of lithium.
Geological facts
Named after George Frederick Kunz, a famous Tiffany & Co. gemologist. It can exhibit strong pleochroism and sometimes phosphorescence.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its prismatic crystal habit, striated faces, and characteristic pinkish-purple color. Found in Afghanistan, Madagascar, Brazil, and the USA.
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