Unakite
Epidote-altered Granite (Granitic rock variety Unakite) · Decorative Stone and Ornamental Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Monoclinic and Triclinic (granular massive aggregate)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Composite rock composed of multiple mineral groups)
Chemical Formula
Complex silicate mixture primarily composed of KAlSi3O8 (Orthoclase), SiO2 (Quartz), and Ca2(Al,Fe)3O(OH)(Si2O7)(SiO4) (Epidote)
Formation Process
Metasomatic alteration (hydrothermal alteration) of granite, where hydrothermal fluids alter plagioclase feldspar into epidote.
About This Crystal
Carved into a small elephant figurine, the stone exhibits a mottled and speckled appearance with distinct pink, green, and white patches. The luster is vitreous to waxy, and the transparency is opaque.
Physical Characteristics
Colors include pink (orthoclase), pistachio green (epidote), and clear/white (quartz). Streak is white. Cleavage is good in feldspar components, fracture is uneven to conchoidal. Specific gravity is approximately 2.8 to 3.0. Tenacity is brittle.
Optical Properties
Biaxial optical properties due to its multi-mineral aggregate composition. Shows no significant pleochroism or special optical phenomena as a bulk rock.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Originally discovered in the Unaka Mountains of North Carolina, USA; also sourced from Virginia, South Africa, Brazil, and China.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness ranges from 6 to 7, making it reasonably durable for carvings and ornamental objects, though susceptible to sharp impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and ultrasonic cleaners.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available. Value is determined primarily by the quality of the carving, color contrast, and lack of fractures. Typically inexpensive.
Special Characteristics
Notable for its distinct, colorful mottled mosaic pattern blending pink feldspar, green epidote, and clear quartz.
Lore & History
Often regarded in modern crystal healing as a stone of vision, balancing emotional and spiritual growth, and associated with the heart chakra. Named after its discovery location in the Unaka range.