metamorphic
Polished pink-and-green feldspar-bearing rock, likely unakite or aventurine granite
Unakite-like epidote–feldspar–quartz aggregate; composition commonly K-feldspar + quartz + epidote
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6–7 Mohs; salmon-pink and pale green, granular texture, vitreous to dull luster, with no obvious cleavage on the rounded surface. The pink areas are feldspar, green areas likely epidote or altered amphibole, and gray translucent portions quartz.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6–7 Mohs; salmon-pink and pale green, granular texture, vitreous to dull luster, with no obvious cleavage on the rounded surface. The pink areas are feldspar, green areas likely epidote or altered amphibole, and gray translucent portions quartz.
Formation & geological history
Forms through hydrothermal alteration or metamorphism of granite, replacing dark minerals with epidote while preserving pink feldspar and quartz; typically Precambrian to younger in age. The specimen appears tumbled or naturally water-worn.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, cabochon, tumbled stone, bead, and lapidary material; generally unsuitable for major construction because it is attractive but occurs in small pieces.
Geological facts
Classic unakite is pink orthoclase, green epidote, and quartz, but similar stones are often marketed broadly as unakite or pink-green granite. Color zoning and granular intergrowth are characteristic.
Field identification & locations
Commonly found in altered granite terrains, including the Appalachian region of the United States, South Africa, Brazil, and China. A hand lens, hardness test, and acid-free inspection can distinguish it from dyed jasper; exact identification requires mineralogical testing.
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