Unakite
Unakite (altered granite variety of Epidote, Quartz, and Orthoclase Feldspar) · Decorative Stone and Gemstone Specimen
Crystal System
Monoclinic (Epidote and Orthoclase) and Trigonal (Quartz); massive or granular habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Composite rock consisting of Epidote, Quartz, and Feldspar)
Chemical Formula
Ca2Al2(Fe3+,Al)(SiO4)(Si2O7)(OH) (Epidote component) + SiO2 (Quartz) + KAlSi3O8 (Feldspar)
Formation Process
Metasomatic alteration (hydrothermal alteration) of granitic rocks, where plagioclase feldspar is replaced by epidote
About This Crystal
Carved into a small animal fetish, this specimen exhibits a distinctive mottled and speckled appearance with a combination of olive-green epidote, pink orthoclase feldspar, and clear to grey quartz. It is opaque to semi-translucent with a polished waxy to vitreous luster, showing smooth carved contours and organic color mottling.
Physical Characteristics
Colors include pistachio/olive green, salmon pink, and white/grey. Streak is white. Fracture is uneven to conchoidal. Specific gravity is approximately 2.85 to 3.0. Tenacity is brittle.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative (for epidote and feldspar components) with no significant pleochroism in its massive carved form; aggregate optical behavior
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Originally discovered in the Unaka Mountains of North Carolina, USA; also found in South Africa, Brazil, China, and Sierra Leone
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, making it durable enough for carved decorative items, small sculptures, and light-wear jewelry like pendants or earrings
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and ultrasonic cleaners to preserve the polished surface.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available; low to moderate value primarily determined by the quality of the carving, polish, and appealing balance of pink and green colors
Special Characteristics
Attractive natural multicolored mottling and speckling, which makes each carved piece completely unique due to the varied mineral composition
Lore & History
Often associated with emotional balance, unakite is traditionally used in crystal healing to bridge the heart and root chakras, promoting patience, groundedness, and recovery from emotional distress. Historically utilized primarily as an ornamental lapidary stone for architecture and carvings