Kunzite, Information and Interesting Facts.

The gemstone Kunzite was named after it's founder G.F Kunz in 1902. First occurence of the gem stone were recorded around 1877.

Kunzite gemstones are normally pale pink (lilac) and can sometimes be seen in darker shades of pink and even with a tinge of purple color. The scientific name of this mineral is spodumene and the color of Kunzite is derived from manganese that exists in the gemstone.

Here are some interesting and rarely disclosed facts about Kunzite gems:

(a) Kunzite has a hardness of around 6 to 7 on the Moh's scale of hardness. Yet, the gemstone is not very durable as the crystalline structure makes it quite fragile. You therefore need to protect the gemstone from blows and other impact.

(b) Most Kunzite is treated for enhancing color. The color of the gemstone will fade when exposed to heat or strong light sources. Infact, all Kunzite gems will gradually fade and lose color when exposed to natural sunlight too. This is a fact that most sellers would not like to disclose as they fear that it will keep buyers away.

(c) Depending on the direction from which the Kunzite gemstone is viewed, it could appear to be a pale color or a gorgeous lilac shade of pink. For this reason, Kunzite gem stones need to be cut at the right angle to ensure that the best color of the gemstone is shown from the top (table) of the cut gemstone.

(d) Smaller sizes of Kunzite gems appear very pale and almost colorless. If you would like to have a Kunzite gem stone with good color, go for sizes of around two carats and above for the piece.

(e) The same spodumene mineral is available in shades of green and is then referred to as 'hiddenite', the pinkish variety is called 'kunzite'. Traders sometimes use the term green Kunzite for hiddenite. Not much harm though, as both gems come from the same mineral namely 'spodumene'.

(f) The Kunzite gemstone is mined in Brazil, Madagascar, Sweden, Manitoba/Canada, and the U.S.A (South Dakota and North Carolina). Some Kunzite finds from Afghanistan show a deep pink color with tones of gorgeous violet shades.

(g) A few precautions regarding handling and looking after Kunzite gems or jewelry with Kunzite gemstones. Do not expose the gemstone to strong light or strong heat as this could hasten the color fade of the gemstone. Kunzite should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner as this could damage the gemstone. You will need to protect your Kunzite gemstone or jewelry from scratches and sharp blows.

You can read the complete report on Kunzite gemstones on this link: http://www.newsletter.kaijewels.com/kunzite-information.htm

Will be back with more interesting information regarding gemstones and jewelry.

God Bless.

Ms.Tuk http://www.kaisilver.com