metamorphic
Unakite Gneiss
Metasomatic Granitoid (variety Unakite)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink (orthoclase), Green (epidote), Gray/Clear (quartz); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Foliated to massive granular; Cleavage: None (fractures); Specific Gravity: 2.85-3.20.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Pink (orthoclase), Green (epidote), Gray/Clear (quartz)
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink (orthoclase), Green (epidote), Gray/Clear (quartz); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Foliated to massive granular; Cleavage: None (fractures); Specific Gravity: 2.85-3.20.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the hydro-thermal metamorphism of granite, where plagioclase feldspar is replaced by epidote. Usually associated with Precambrian or Paleozoic tectonic events in mountain belts.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a decorative stone, in lapidary work for cabochons and beads, as architectural facing, and sometimes as construction aggregate or road base.
Geological facts
Unakite is named after the Unaka Range in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina/Tennessee where it was first discovered. It is the state rock of Virginia.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unique 'Christmas-like' color combination of salmon-pink and pistachio-green. Commonly found as rounded river stones in the mid-Atlantic US and Lake Superior region. It does not react to acid.
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