metamorphic
Polished Unakite (likely)
Unakite: quartz + epidote + pink K-feldspar, commonly with minor chlorite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6–7 Mohs; mottled pistachio-green and salmon-pink, with a glassy to waxy polish. Granular, non-cleavable as a whole; specific gravity approximately 2.7–3.3.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6–7 Mohs; mottled pistachio-green and salmon-pink, with a glassy to waxy polish. Granular, non-cleavable as a whole; specific gravity approximately 2.7–3.3.
Formation & geological history
A metamorphosed granite in which feldspar altered to epidote, typically during hydrothermal alteration; generally Precambrian to Paleozoic in source terrains. This specimen is tumbled and polished.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornaments, and lapidary pieces; rarely used as architectural stone. Commonly valued as an attractive decorative aggregate.
Geological facts
Its distinctive green-and-pink coloration comes from epidote and altered potassium feldspar, while quartz forms the harder translucent areas.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by the irregular green-pink granitic pattern, granular texture, and resistance to scratching by steel. Classic material occurs near the Unaka Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina, with similar stones found worldwide.
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