By Diana Jarrett, GG

A beautiful form of spodumene is kunzite, which most gem historians agree its discovery in California was in the early 20th century. However, since gem hunting has often been a solitary vocation, it is conceivable that earlier findings of this lovely mineral were simply not recorded. Later discoveries of this gem mineral include deposits found in Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria & Pakistan.

Lilac and other ethereal cool shades of pink toned colors are what kunzite is celebrated for. But spend a little time studying the unexpected hues of kunzite with a quick stop at the gemstone shop in the kunzite category for what will surely pique your interest

Courtesy of Bonhams & Butterfield

Kunzite takes its impressive name from the father of modern gemology, George Frederick Kunz, who served as Tiffany's first gemologist. Kunz founded a mineral enthusiast's club in 1886, The New York Mineralogical Club is still vital over a hundred years later. Kunz authored books which are still valued as a window into the history of the organized study and science of gemstone classification.

The main chemical composition in kunzite is lithium aluminum silicate. Like many other colored gemstones, it's the trace elements of other minerals which alter the final appearance. Manganese is responsible for the fresh lilac hue, and most any complexion is brightened up with kunzites' many variations.

An interesting aspect of kunzite is its pleochroism--a favorite trait with all true gem collectors. Viewing the stone from different angles will reveal changes in the intensity of the color. Cutters who are experienced in this stone understand the characteristic and take care in planning its cut so that the maximum effect will emerge. Since kunzite also a stone with perfect cleavage, it could be tricky to polish. So only expert cutters should work on kunzite, to assure that the largest finished carat weight with the finest color reveal occurs.

Recently an outstandingly large and strongly saturated kunzite appeared on the auction block in Los Angeles at Bonhams & Butterfield. The catalogue description read:

Exceptionally Large Gem Spodumene, var. Kunzite A sumptuous, large, faceted purplish-pink kunzite of deep saturation. Probably originating from Brazil, this beautiful gem is fashioned as an oval cushion-cut with a modified step-cut crown and pavilion. Both the luster and clarity are superb. Measures 49.5 x 34.0 x 25.0mm; weighs 351.5 carats. Offered in a custom-fitted presentation box.

At that size, it's a collector's piece, fit for a fine cabinet of world class gem-minerals. Even though the economy currently lags, such a specimen is rare enough that it encouraged vigorous bidding resulting with a sale of $3660 including buyers' premium. Bonhams informs us that an even larger 722 carat kunzite will come on the market soon which has serious collectors eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of it. We'll keep you updated with your own private showing of this remarkable gemstone, here at ThaiGem. We think you'd like to know how the market values these and other precious gemstones that we also bring you all the time at stellar values.

In the meanwhile, study the kunzite we've carefully selected for you. With the wide array on hand for you, there will be a perfect specimen to fit your budget and preferences, as you ruminate over the illustrious past of this very modern gem.