Kunzite

Kunzite, natural gemstone, origin, characteristics, symbolism and jewelry

Stone profile

• Family or nature: Pink to lilac variety of spodumene, a lithium-containing silicate
• Colors: Pale pink, deep pink, lilac or light violet
• Symbolic associations: gentleness, openness and sensitivity

Characteristics and origin

Kunzite owes its color primarily to manganese and often exhibits pleochroism visible depending on the viewing angle. Deposits are found notably in Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan and the United States.

Traditional symbolism

In lithotherapy traditions and certain cultural uses, this material is associated with the following themes: gentleness, openness and sensitivity. These associations are cultural, spiritual or personal benchmarks. They do not describe an action produced by the stone.

Kunzite in jewelry

With a hardness of approximately 6.5 to 7, it can be faceted with brilliance, but its perfect cleavage makes it sensitive to impact. Prolonged exposure to intense light can also fade certain colors.

Care: Store it away from sunlight and separately from other jewelry. Avoid heat, ultrasound, steam and shocks.

Discover more

Consult our A–Z Gemstone Guide to compare materials, colors and care precautions.

Key takeaways

Kunzite combines pink-lilac tones and beautiful brilliance, with a delicacy that requires careful handling.

Important note: No physical or psychological effects are scientifically proven. Lithotherapy is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.