Kunzite

KUNZITE
** Kunzite is a relatively new stone, discovered in the early 1900s. It is the lilac and pink version of Spodumene (the green version is called Hiddenite), and is very rare and expensive (it is not uncommon to see prices of $10.00 or more for a SINGLE BEAD!).** While Kunzite is fairly hard--about the same hardness as Quartz--it is extremely fragile. It has perfect cleavage (planes of weakness), which makes it very hard to cut. If it is hit hard, it can fracture along the cleavage lines. Kunzite should never be left near overly hot areas, it should be protected from scratches and blows, and will fade if exposed to sunlight.** Kunzite is pleochroic, which means it appears to be different colors when viewed from different angles. From one angle it looks clear, while from another it looks pink. Gem cutters have a hard task of cutting it so that it looks pink from above. Smaller stones don't look very pink when cut; a gem must be 10 carats or larger for a good pink color.** Physically, Kunzite is thought to aid in problems of the heart, nerves, circulatory system, and lungs.** Emotionally, Kunzite is thought to bring peace and inner calm, to help the wearer to focus on the task at hand, and to remove mental obstacles and dissolve negative emotions. This stone helps to foster self-discipline, and to break habits. It promotes love in all forms, and brings the wearer a sense of self-respect, self-love, and inner strength. Its high lithium content makes it an excellent stone for aiding in depression.** Kunzite was named after George F. Kunz, who first described it.** Kunzite is not a birthstone or anniversary stone, but it is the Patriotic Stone of September. In all my research on gemstones, I have NEVER heard of a monthly Patriotic Stone, so this is entirely new to me!