metamorphic
Unakite
Altered Granite (Epidotized Feldspar with Quartz)
Hardness: 6 - 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mottled green (epidote), pink to salmon-red (orthoclase feldspar), and clear to gray (quartz); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic/Triclinic coarse-grained matrix; Cleavage: Irregular fracture due to intergrown minerals; Specific Gravity: 2.85 - 3.20
- Hardness
- 6 - 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 - 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mottled green (epidote), pink to salmon-red (orthoclase feldspar), and clear to gray (quartz); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic/Triclinic coarse-grained matrix; Cleavage: Irregular fracture due to intergrown minerals; Specific Gravity: 2.85 - 3.20
Formation & geological history
Unakite is formed through the hydrothermal metamorphism of granite. Deep underground, hot, mineral-rich fluid flows through granitic rocks, altering plagioclase feldspars into green epidote, while preserving pink orthoclase feldspar and quartz grains.
Uses & applications
Widely used for lapidary work, cabochons, beads, carved figurines, and decorative polished tiles/slabs. It is also a popular collector stone and metaphysical mineral.
Geological facts
Unakite was first discovered in the Unaka Range of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, USA, from which it gets its name. It is also the official state rock of Virginia.
Field identification & locations
Look for the distinctive combination of pistacio-green epidote and salmon-pink feldspar. Commonly found in stream beds, gravel deposits, and mountainous regions like the Appalachians in the USA, as well as South Africa, Brazil, and China.
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