metamorphic
Tumbled unakite
Unakite (epidote + pink K-feldspar + quartz)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6–7 Mohs; mottled pale green, pink, cream, and yellow-brown colors with a dull to vitreous luster. It is granular and massive, with no obvious cleavage in the rounded, polished specimen; typical specific gravity is about 2.8–3.2.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Tumbled unakite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness about 6–7 Mohs; mottled pale green, pink, cream, and yellow-brown colors with a dull to vitreous luster. It is granular and massive, with no obvious cleavage in the rounded, polished specimen; typical specific gravity is about 2.8–3.2.
Formation & geological history
Unakite forms when granite undergoes hydrothermal alteration, replacing some feldspar with epidote while retaining quartz. It is generally Precambrian to Paleozoic in source rocks, commonly exposed in altered mountain belts.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for tumbled stones, cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative objects; it has little industrial or high-jewelry value.
Geological facts
The distinctive pink-and-green pattern reflects intergrowths of feldspar and epidote rather than dye. The specimen appears water-worn or mechanically tumbled and polished.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its opaque, mottled pink-green pattern, granular texture, and moderate hardness; it is commonly collected in the Appalachian region, especially Virginia and North Carolina, as well as South Africa and Brazil.
More like this
