Unakite
Unakite (altered granite composed of pink orthoclase feldspar, green epidote, and colorless quartz) · Decorative Stone and Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Monoclinic (Orthoclase and Epidote) and Trigonal (Quartz); massive or tumbled habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (specifically Tectosilicates and Inosilicates combined in a rock)
Chemical Formula
KAlSi3O8 (Orthoclase) + Ca2(Al,Fe)3(SiO4)3(OH) (Epidote) + SiO2 (Quartz)
Formation Process
Metamorphic alteration (hydrothermal alteration or metasomatism) of granitic rocks, where plagioclase feldspar is replaced by epidote.
About This Crystal
A polished tumbled stone displaying a distinct mottled or speckled pattern of vibrant pink and deep moss green, with occasional clear to grey quartz inclusions. The stone is opaque with a vitreous to sub-vitreous luster.
Physical Characteristics
Colors include pink, peach, olive green, and dark green. Streak is white. Cleavage is good in two directions (due to feldspar components). Fracture is uneven to conchoidal. Specific gravity ranges from 2.85 to 3.0. Tenacity is brittle.
Optical Properties
Biaxial (due to constituent minerals), doubly refractive, with no significant chatoyancy, asterism, or special optical phenomena.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Originally found in the Unaka Mountains of North Carolina, USA; also sourced from South Africa, Brazil, China, and Sierra Leone.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness is generally 6 to 7, making it durable enough for most jewelry applications like rings and pendants, though caution should be exercised against sharp impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and ultrasonic cleaners. Store away from harder gems to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely accessible. Inexpensive, usually sold as tumbled stones, beads, or carved decorative items.
Special Characteristics
Distinctive mosaic-like color patterning created by the intergrowth of pink feldspar and green epidote.
Lore & History
Named after the Unaka Mountains where it was discovered. In modern crystal healing, it is considered a stone of vision, balancing emotional and spiritual aspects, and is often associated with the heart chakra.