Kunzite: description of the stone, properties, compatibility with zodiac signs

History and origin

The history of the mineral goes back just over a century. It was first discovered by prospectors during construction in the area of ​​Pala, California (San Diego, USA). They mistook it for tourmaline and analyzed it in the laboratory. Experts have determined that the mineral is a new variety of Spodumene.

Some time later, mineralogist George Kunz, after conducting a series of studies on the found stone, presented the mysterious gem to the public by filing a patent (1902). He compiled a classification of its properties and described its appearance in detail in accordance with the samples of that time. After this, the mineral began to be called kunzite in honor of the scientist.

Several unofficial names have also been assigned to the stone. One has to do with the class of stones that kunzite belongs to. It was nicknamed “spodumene” for its unusual color and iridescence. The second name was given in memory of the first discovery of mineral deposits of a soft pink color - “California iris”. “Hiddenite” has an emerald green or bluish green color. “Trifan” – transparent, colorless, yellow, yellow-green.

If not for Kunz's work at Tiffany, the stone might still have gone unnoticed.

A special feature of kunzite is its solidity and large size. Stone processing is somewhat difficult. He's quite fragile. And to get a beautiful shimmer, the array is cut along a certain axis.

The mineral is a silicate of tectonic origin (lithium, sodium and aluminum) with an admixture of manganese. The saturation and color of the stone depends on the latter. In nature, there are various colors of kunzite: from transparent faded pink to purple. The stone is found adjacent to granite formations. It forms massifs of several meters, which are composed of columnar crystals. Their weight exceeds 10 tons with a total length of 10 m.

Who is George Koontz

Kunz studies "kunzite"

George Kunz is a remarkable figure in the mineralogy community.

Born in the USA in a family of emigrants, from his youth he became interested in stones, of which there was an abundance around.

Stones became his life's work:

• By the age of 20, in six years, he had assembled his first collection of minerals, which he sold to the University of Minnesota. Subsequently there were several such meetings. Among them - for the luminary of American science Thomas Edison and billionaire Morgan. They are kept in the US Museum of Natural History.
• He worked for half a century as an expert at the Tiffany jewelry company, rising to the level of vice president. This one is kunzite.

George Kunz was an advocate of the carat as an international unit of measurement for gemstones.

• Contributed to the naming of new gems: morganite, moissanite, tiffanite.
• His merits were recognized: the scientist became a member of almost all specialized societies in America, and a professor at European universities. He received the highest awards from France, Japan, and Norway.

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He died in 1932, he was 75 years old.

All his life he collected not only stones, but also books on his specialty. According to the scientist's will, his collection of several thousand volumes was sold to the widow of the US Geological Survey library for $1.

Place of Birth

Deposits of the mineral are distributed throughout the world (including unexplored ones). However, stones from only a few deposits are suitable for jewelry inserts.

The most valuable specimens are mined in Brazil (Minas Gerais) and California. High-quality transparent nuggets weighing up to 10 kg are processed in Afghanistan (Kulam, Badakhshan). It is the world leader in kunzite mining. Small deposits have been discovered in Africa (Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria) and Eurasia (Pakistan and Russia).

Physical properties

Kunzite has pronounced pleochroism. Depending on the angle of view, when viewed in the light, the stone changes color: pink, colorless, reddish, bright purple. The play of color is complemented by a glassy shine.

Kunzite fades greatly when exposed to sunlight for a long time. Longitudinal vertical streaks are observed inside the crystal. When exposed to X-ray and ultraviolet radiation, the crystal exhibits luminescence properties (non-thermal radiation in orange and yellow-red tones).

Price

The cost of jewelry depends on the size, store brand, professionalism of the seller and the availability of other stones. Cut kunzite from Afghanistan measuring 8 x 7 x 4 mm costs 1.8 thousand rubles. A mineral measuring 28mm x 19.5mm x 13.3mm from Brazil is sold for 25 thousand rubles.

A bracelet made of kunzite mined in Argentina in the shape of balls costs 2.5 thousand rubles. The bracelet, complemented with amethysts, has a similar price.

Kunzite beads with rose quartz sell for 3.2 thousand rubles. Earrings with the addition of lapis lazuli cost 1.9 thousand rubles. The cost of a pendant in the form of a swan made of kunzite is 3.7 thousand rubles.

A set of earrings and a ring framed in silver and cubic zirconia is sold for 5.6 thousand rubles. Private jewelers also offer a budget option for 2.8 thousand rubles.

Craftsmen combine kunzite with precious stones. A heart-shaped pendant made of mineral framed with 1 mm rubies costs 6.5 thousand rubles.

Jewelers also create exclusive collections. A mineral brooch framed with diamonds and sapphires with a gold clasp costs 190 thousand rubles. The same earrings – 251 thousand rubles.

Varieties of mineral

The extraction of stones from various deposits determines their color and saturation.

There are different shades of kunzite:

• Transparent;
• Pale pink;
• Pink;
• Bluish-violet;
• Pale lilac;
• Purple;
• Gray-brown;
• Yellow;
• Light brown;
• Emerald (synthetic).

Photo gallery of stone varieties:

Trifan Basic stone colors

Reference! Less saturated minerals (in color) fade faster. Synthetic emerald kunzite produced by prolonged exposure to X-rays is also susceptible to this property.

What is

According to the mineralogical classification, kunzite stone is a variety of spodumene of delicate pink, lilac or purple color.

Varieties of spodumene: a crystal of nearly colorless kunzite (top left), faceted pale pink kunzite (top right), and a crystal of greenish hiddenite (bottom).

Its crystals are a flattened prism with clear shading.

The stone is not considered rare: the parameters of monoliths are measured in meters and tons. However, the blocks are opaque, so they are intended for industrialists and collectors.

Unlike other jewelry gems, it cannot be heat treated.

Heated kunzites become irreversibly discolored. May turn into grassy green giddenites, another variety of spodumene. But this is a matter of chance.

Medicinal properties

The mineral is used in lithotherapy. Its properties help cure many diseases and ailments (proven experimentally):

1. Strengthens blood vessels and restores blood circulation.
2. Helps fight colds as an antiseptic.
3. Improves the effects of antiallergenic and antiviral agents.
4. Relieves headaches and activates the brain (applied to the crown and forehead).
5. Absorbs toxins and medicinal compounds (anesthesia) produced by the body (placed next to the patient after operations).
6. Relieves nervous tension, improves sleep, relieves depression (just look at the stone periodically).
7. Concentrates attention, memory, brings harmony and peace of mind.
8. Increases libido in women and strengthens men's health; fights the symptoms of problematic menstruation.
9. Effective in the treatment of lung diseases, low immunity, neuralgia and problems with pulse and blood pressure.
10. Helps get rid of skin rashes resulting from contact with chemicals.

Also read: Morganite - what you need to know about this mysterious stone

Also, the stone does not have the ability to accumulate negative energy, no matter what kind of person wears it.

ethnoscience

To boost your immunity, you need to drink water charged with kunzite. For a sound sleep, the stone is placed under the pillow. To find peace of mind, just watch the play of colors or hold a kunzite figurine in your hand. To protect a person from damage, the gem is framed in a silver frame.

Magical powers

In ancient times, it was believed that multi-colored stones were created by the devil, who corrupted people overcome by greed and greed. It is remarkable that kunzite is translated from ancient Greek as “turned to ashes.”

Where the belief came from that a person needs a personal amulet against the evil eye and damage, destined for him by fate according to his horoscope (name, date of birth), is unknown. But even Pushkin himself wrote in one of his poems: “Keep me safe, my talisman.”

In esotericism

The stone is considered a powerful energy drink. His aura affects the worldview and attitude, bringing harmony to life. The stone protects its owner from unhappy love. Helps to maintain composure and protects against deception. For young and inexperienced girls, the stone grants invulnerability to evil or people who desire it.

In meditation practices

Kunzite is considered the guardian of consciousness. Brings the spirit (mind) into balance, normalizes pulse, heartbeat and breathing. Useful for tachycardia, suspected stroke. It is the most popular guide for entering trance. In addition to activating logic, kunzite enhances the potential of internal forces, opens superpowers by influencing the chakras.

For home meditations, the following ritual is performed. You need to sit on a flat surface with your back straight. Next, the stone is applied to the heart chakra. Take a breath and imagine a lilac ray moving from the heart to the forehead. As soon as the beam appears in the imagination, hold your breath. When the ray of the third eye reaches, they exhale, sending the ray back to the heart. The actions are repeated for 11 minutes. The ritual sets you up for a healthy and fruitful day.

In creativity

The mineral is a stone for creative individuals. Thanks to it, new thoughts, inspiration and strength come to the owner. Kunzite is able to open dormant talents and gives strength to the will.

In life

The gem helps a person quickly adapt to any new conditions. Effectively relieves stress, neuroses and temporary mental disorders. Removes negative messages from emotionally weak people, especially children. It helps sick children improve their skills and cope with limitations.

In love

The stone is the guardian of the feminine and masculine principles. It gives confidence, helps to overcome indecision, and cuts off doubts in ambiguous communication. When storing kunzite figurines, good luck, financial well-being and true love will definitely come to your home. Helps to cope with a breakup or breakup. It is used to increase the chances of conception.

For children

It is considered a feminine stone. Helps young girls in adolescence to correctly assess their changed body. For young children, kunzite guarantees healthy sleep without nightmares and bad dreams. Protects children from impiety and immorality, teaches kindness, honesty and openness. Helps single mothers or women who are raising other people's children.

Also read: Euclase is a rare mineral and a powerful talisman

In progress

Wearing the stone is indicated for individuals who experience constant stress at work during communication. Kunzite restrains feelings and emotions, helps to overcome irritation. It can be recommended to journalists, TV presenters, politicians, bosses of any level, telephone operators and sales managers. Kunzite provides protection from sexual intimidation at work and protects you from impudent bosses towards whom you dislike.

On a journey

For drivers behind the wheel, it brings clarity of vision and calms them down while on the road (purple). Ordinary passengers are guaranteed peace of mind and comfort. Relieves any worries, giving clarity to the mind. Protects against excessive alcohol consumption. And in places of historical battles or tragedy, it protects from “stuck souls” and demons feeding on negativity.

Compatibility with other stones

Despite the absence of any reactions with other minerals, the stone is preferable to be worn as the main decoration (in a frame). Ideally combined with many types of stones:

• beryl,
• chrysoberyl,
• amethyst,
• topaz,
• emerald,
• citrine,
• onyx.

When choosing products with several inserts, choose a harmonious combination of minerals with the same transparency and refraction of light. Looks unaesthetic with:

• pearls,
• opal,
• agate,
• jasper and other opaque stones.

But, if the order is carried out according to desire and imagination (an unusual shocking sketch), the stone will only enhance the effect.

Jewelry with mineral

The mineral kunzite is used in the jewelry, arts and crafts and industrial industries. Mass production of kunzite products has not been established. Therefore, they cannot be found on the open market. Kunzite can be bought at exhibitions and fairs or from private craftsmen who undertake the cutting of such a capricious stone. Stones in any setting look impressive due to their size and intriguing shade. They are often confused with pink sapphire, amethyst or spinel.

Prices for kunzite vary: from $5 to $200 per carat. A stone in a setting can cost 50 or 300 thousand rubles. It all depends on the carat, color, presence of foreign inclusions, manufacturer, etc.

The average Russian price of 5 carats of kunzite is 8,000 rubles. Lilac and deep pink minerals are valued at a minimum of $80 per carat. The most expensive are purple and violet-red copies, which can only be ordered upon request.

Interesting! Former President John Kennedy, a month before his death, prepared a surprise for his wife in the form of a ring with 47-carat kunzite for the holiday celebration. It was subsequently sold at Sotheby's for $40,000.

Description

Semi-precious kunzite is a pink, purple-violet or lilac variety of the mineral spodumene from the pyroxene group.

A well-cut kunzite is comparable to a pink diamond. This is the most popular color variant of spodumene on the market. In second place is green, it is called giddenite.

Crystals for every taste, from tiny jewelry pieces to industrial opaque giants. One of these specimens (110 kg) was found in California.

How to spot a fake

In order not to run into low-grade analogues of kunzite (quartz, cubic zirconia, corundum) or even glass, a number of experiments are carried out.

1. Fluorescence. Shine an ultraviolet light on the stone (lighter). It should shimmer with a reddish or orange tint. This property is similar to Brazilian amethyst (quartz).
2. Cleavage. Inside real kunzite, when held up to the light, one can see peculiar longitudinal streaks (layering). And it is usually cut in the form of a rounded prism (not standard).
3. White line. If you forcefully draw kunzite across a biscuit (a special strip in jewelry made from rough porcelain), the trace strip will be white. The strength of kunzite on the Mohs scale allows this to be done without damage (you can use the bottom or knocked edge of a porcelain plate).
4. Pleochroism. The stone should play with different colors (a fiery glow, then appearing and then disappearing into nowhere).

Also read: Zircon – the stone of travelers and leaders

Caring for stone products

Jewelry with kunzite is worn in the evening (dinner party, evening in a restaurant, public event). The rest of the time the product is stored in a box (soft cloth). Cleaning of the gem is carried out using a special cloth without chemicals, steaming, ultrasonic treatment, etc.

Important! The stone is afraid of temperature changes, heating, minor impacts and sunlight. Any housework or sports are incompatible with wearing the stone.

How to wear and care

The pink color and transparency of the stone are due to manganese. But this element is unstable and defenseless against the sun's rays. Under ultraviolet light it fades until completely discolored.

Kunzite jewelry should be carefully looked after:

• The box should be opaque, tightly closed, soft from the inside.
• It is not placed near heat sources (fireplaces, heating appliances).
• Jewelry should not be worn in the scorching sun.
• Jewelry is removed before visiting the beach, bathhouse, sauna, or doing household work.
• The mineral is fragile, it is protected from impacts and falls.
• Remove dirt with a cloth soaked in soapy water.

Kunzites of Brazilian origin are especially delicate. They fade faster than others.

Delicate shades allow you to wear jewelry in sets. Even a necklace made of large beads plus a ring and earrings with large kunzite inserts does not look excessive.

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Compatibility with zodiac signs

Kunzite is the most humane stone that suits most people, regardless of the constellation under which the person is influenced.

(“+++” – the stone fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated):

• For Taurus, the stone brings great luck, many surprises and beneficial communication.
• For Leos, kunzite will provide a stable emotional state without aggression and outline the range of ambitions and priorities.
• For Scorpios, the stone will help them become an example among loved ones and friends, find a goal in life and grab the tail of luck.

It gives more strength to these signs because they are prone to isolation, uncertainty, irritability and hypersensitivity.

The healing and magical effects of kunzite will affect Gemini to a lesser extent. But its owner will find a compromise between the mind and the heart, which will allow him to move forward.

The stone has an average effect on the other signs of the zodiac. This largely depends on the moral qualities of the person.

Is this stone right for you?

Name compatibility

For almost a century, the stone was popular in Western Europe and America. But Russian astrologers and numerologists keep up with fashion and advise people with certain names to wear the stone. Kunzite in this case will be considered their talisman and guardian.

Female names:

• Lyudmila;
• Lily;
• Elina;
• Inessa;
• Ada;
• Renata;
• Ksenia;
• Violet;
• Leila;
• Julia.

Male names:

• Kirill;
• Peter;
• Boris;
• Gleb;
• Maksim;
• Victor;
• Efim;
• Zakhar;
• Innocent;
• Oleg.

Who is it suitable for?

Motorists. Keep the amulet in your car. It can help avoid unpleasant situations on the road.

For those who want, but cannot, relax and feel like a carefree child.

Zodiac signs

Melody and J. Hall advise wearing kunzite:

• Scorpios;
• Leos;
• Taurus.

Although most astrologers have not yet decided on the preferences of kunzite. The stone is “allowed” to be worn by everyone without exception.

Is Kunzite right for you?

Not really

Element

Earth

Planets

Venus

Pluto

Energy

Yin

Notes

1. The most common color is pale pink. But finding brighter shades is not difficult. Particularly prized are stones that are pinkish-lilac, like cosmos flowers, or completely purple. Pallor may also mean that the stone was not cut using the same technology.
2. Kunzite is not grown in laboratory conditions; it is only tinted using equipment. Counterfeits are made synthetically. But more often quartz is passed off as kunzite. Kunzite can be distinguished by its cleavage and greater hardness.
3. Bright pink kunzite does not exist in nature. If you are offered a stone with the color of pink topaz, but with a glassy sheen (cold deep), then it is synthetic corundum or high-quality glass.
4. Kunzite in the entire range of colors is distinguished by an orange-red glow under UV rays.

Kunzite is a rather mystical stone. Many psychics express surprise at its energetic vibrations. At the same time, the stone has a delicate magical color and makes it attractive to many fashionistas and spenders. Taking into account the biocompatibility of kunzite and its healing properties, the stone can become a favorite purchase or an ideal gift.

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Questions/Answers

There is little information on kunzite. "Young" pebble. If we missed something, enlighten us, we will make additions to the article.

How to distinguish a fake?

Kunzite is similar to:

• amethyst;
• topaz;
• beryl;
• rose quartz;
• sparrow

There is no known synthesis of kunzite.

But many gems undergo refining before sale. They are heated or irradiated.

For experts : any specialist can easily distinguish a gem by its extinction angle—kunzite has the lowest among monoclinic pyroxenes.

How to care?

Due to cleavage in three directions, the stone splits easily. Therefore, hold it tightly, do not drop it, do not knock the gem on hard surfaces.

Cleaning with ultrasound and steam is strictly not recommended.

Washing in the old “grandmother’s” way. Dilute a neutral detergent (for example, baby soap or shampoo) in water and wipe the jewelry with a damp cloth. Then rinse and dry with a napkin.

Important : protect the gem from sunlight. Especially if its color is not too bright. Stones quickly fade under the light of the Sun, and the color is not restored.

Who should wear it?

American and English jewelers do not associate the gem with the months of the year.

That's why I liked kunzite - wear it and enjoy life.

How to wear?

To protect against negative impacts, wear the crystal set in silver.

Brooches and rings are best worn on the right side.

What is the price?

Kunzite deserves individual, personal work with the crystal. How much are crystals nowadays?

Tumbling 1-2 cm costs about 700 rubles. But it can be worn as an amulet.

What colors are there?

The palette of shades is wide - from pink of different saturations to purple with blue.

• Saturated pink gems without a purple tint are valued the most.
• Pink ones with a distinct purple tint are much cheaper.
• Colorless crystals are the cheapest.
• The color of a “windy sunset” comes from manganese ions.

Note : kunzite can be brownish or greenish in color.

Where can I buy?

1. Crystals have not yet been found in Russia. Therefore, all raw materials are imported.
2. Look for the stone in large online stores and large jewelry stores.
3. Trips abroad, especially to America, can add to your jewelry box.

What stones does it go with?

Kunzite does not experience any hostility towards its “neighbors”. He is good alone.

But you can wear it with gems:

• amethyst;
• citrine;
• beryl;
• topaz.

It is only desirable that the neighbor be transparent.

Shall we put on rose-colored glasses?

Pink color. Rose-colored childhood, “seeing life through rose-colored glasses” - why do they say that?

Pink in our eyes is the color of youth, tenderness and (what can we hide) immaturity and infantilism.

And psychologists note that pink color promotes:

• romantic mood;
• reduction of aggression;
• rest, distraction from mental work.

The obvious “non-aggressiveness” of pink, its femininity, carefreeness and softness makes it one of the antidepressant colors (along with the generally recognized green).

Therefore, let's wear pink - the wealth of shades allows you to choose the right shade at any age of a woman.

I didn’t have time to give...

Handsome and smart John Kennedy, after being elected President of the United States, decided to give his wife (also beautiful and smart) Jacqueline a gift. And he bought a kunzite crystal weighing 47 carats. I don’t know where they planned to insert this cobblestone. And no one will know anymore.

The gift was not given. Kennedy was assassinated. And the gem was sold for $41,000. Kunzite went to a private collection...