Kunzite
Image: Jarno from Rotterdam, Netherlands (CC BY 2.0)
Mineral NameKunzite
Chemical FormulaLiAlSi2O6
Mohs Hardness6.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {110}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.18
Colorspink, lilac, purple
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityAfghanistan, Brazil, USA (California)
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, collector
Associated Mineralsquartz, feldspar, tourmaline, beryl
Rarityuncommon
Description
A large, light pink, transparent crystal exhibiting prominent parallel striations along its length, characteristic of spodumene varieties.
Geological Context
Kunzite forms in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks that crystallize from magma late in the cooling process.
