metamorphic
Unakite
Altered Granite (composed of orthoclase feldspar, epidote, and quartz)
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Distinctive mottled pink (orthoclase) and green (epidote) with clear or grey quartz. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Granular/massive. Cleavage: None distinct. Specific gravity: 2.55-3.02.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Distinctive mottled pink (orthoclase) and green (epidote) with clear or grey quartz. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Granular/massive. Cleavage: None distinct. Specific gravity: 2.55-3.02.
Formation & geological history
Formed by hydrothermal alteration (metasomatism) of granitic rocks, where hot fluids alter the original minerals, replacing plagioclase feldspar with pink orthoclase and green epidote. Geological age varies widely by location, often associated with major mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary arts, for carving into small sculptures, making beads, cabochons for jewelry, and as decorative tumbled stones.
Geological facts
Unakite was first discovered in the Unaka Mountains of North Carolina, from which it gets its name. It is often found in glacial drift pebbles, having been transported from mountainous regions.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its striking, distinct color combination of salmon-pink and pistachio-green. Commonly found in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the USA, as well as South Africa, Brazil, and China.
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