This variety of the mineral spodumene was first discovered in Pala, California in 1902 and was later named kunzite for the American gemologist George F. Kunz. Kunzite is typically shades of violet and pink, caused by trace impurities of manganese. Kunzite exhibits strong pleochroism, an optical phenomenon. When viewed from different directions, the color of a kunzite crystal can appear pale pink, nearly colorless to greenish, or intensely pink to purple. This kunzite crystal from the Urucum Mine in Minas Gerais, Brazil is approximately 16.5" in length and 2.5" in width with a pinkish-purple hue and exhibits beautiful luster and dramatic hydrothermal etching. A wonderful addition to the National Mineral Collection, it was donated by Michael and Tricia Berns in honor of Dr. Jeffrey Post.
