monoclinic Inosilicates
Kunzite
LiAlSi2O6:Mn
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Kunzite (Spodumene)
#! System: Monoclinic (2/m)
#! Habit: Elongated prismatic with strong pink pleochroism
monoclinic[2/m]:{110}@1.0 + {100}@0.8 + {010}@0.6 + {001}@1.2[pleochroism:strong]
monoclinic
2/m
{110} {100} {010} {001}
Quick Facts
Hardness
6.5
Specific Gravity
3.15
Refractive Index
1.66
Optical Character
Biaxial +
Interactive Preview
Open this crystal in the CDL Playground to rotate, export, and explore in 3D.
Open in PlaygroundPhysical Properties
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Hardness (Mohs)6.5
Specific Gravity3.15
CleavagePerfect in two directions
FractureUneven to splintery
LustreVitreous
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.66
Birefringence0.014-0.016
Optical CharacterBiaxial +
Dispersion0.017
Pleochroismstrong: Pink / Violet/Purplish-pink / Near colorless (Strong trichroism; best color seen down c-axis; fades in prolonged light)
FluorescenceStrong orange-pink (LWUV); notable phosphorescence
Colours
PinkLilacVioletColorless
Localities
AfghanistanBrazilMadagascarUSA (California)Pakistan
Common Inclusions
Growth tubesEtch tubesHealing cracksLiquid inclusionsMulti-phase inclusions
Known Treatments
Irradiation (to enhance colour)
Crystal Forms
prismpinacoid
Interactive Preview
Open this crystal in the CDL Playground to rotate, export, and explore in 3D.
Open in PlaygroundRelated Minerals
Other minerals in the monoclinic system
