igneous
Unakite Mushroom Carving
Altered Granite (Epidote, Pink Orthoclase Feldspar, and Quartz)
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, mottled green and pink/peach color, vitreous to greasy luster, microcrystalline to cryptocrystalline structure, uneven fracture, specific gravity around 2.8-3.0.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Unakite Mushroom Carving in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, mottled green and pink/peach color, vitreous to greasy luster, microcrystalline to cryptocrystalline structure, uneven fracture, specific gravity around 2.8-3.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the hydrothermal alteration (metasomatism) of granitic rocks, where plagioclase feldspar is replaced by epidote. Geological age varies widely depending on the host granite deposit.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for decorative carvings, ornamental stones, lapidary art, and metaphysical crystal collecting.
Geological facts
Unakite was first discovered in the Unaka Mountains of North Carolina, which is how it got its name. It is a popular material for tumbling and carving due to its pleasing contrast of pink and green hues.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct mottled mixture of pink orthoclase and green epidote. Commonly sourced from the United States (North Carolina, Virginia), South Africa, Brazil, and China.
