Kunzite
The Soft Pink Light of Universal Peace
Also known as: Evening Stone, Pink Spodumene
About the stone
Kunzite is the pink-to-violet variety of spodumene, colored by traces of manganese. Discovered in 1902 in Pala, San Diego County, California, it was identified by Tiffany & Co. mineralogist George Frederick Kunz and named in his honor by chemist Charles Baskerville in 1903. Major sources include Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, and California. Also described as pink spodumene, it is nicknamed the evening stone because prolonged exposure to bright light can fade its color. In modern crystal lore, it is sometimes called the Stone of Divine Love and associated with the heart chakra, compassion, emotional openness, and unconditional love.
Mineral data
- Chemical composition: Kunzite is the pink to lilac variety of spodumene, a lithium aluminum inosilicate, LiAlSi2O6, a member of the pyroxene group. Its color comes from traces of manganese.
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, with perfect cleavage that makes it brittle.
- Color: Pink to lilac, with strong pleochroism that shows different colors from different angles.
- Specific gravity: 3.5-3.7
- Refractive index: 1.660-1.681
Metaphysical data
Kunzite, recognized for its soft pink glow and gentle, loving presence, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to open the heart, soothe emotional distress and encourage universal compassion.
Peaceful and Soothing Energy
- Kunzite is believed to radiate peace and universal love, wrapping the user in a gentle atmosphere of warmth and ease.
- It is said to increase appreciation and awe of nature, animals, plants, humanity and the earth, softening the heart toward all living things.
Emotional Healing
- The stone is thought to allow one to quickly move on from negative emotions, so they do not stick around all day.
- It is often used during anxious or overwhelming moments, as a calming reminder to breathe and let feelings pass like clouds.
Harmonizing Energy Centers
- Kunzite is associated with the heart chakra, where its tender pink tones are thought to encourage openness, compassion and self-love.
- Held over the heart in meditation, it is said to bring a warm, quieting glow that softens tension in the chest.
Zodiac Associations
- Kunzite is linked to the zodiac signs of Taurus, Leo and Scorpio, whose loyalty, warmth and depth match this stone's devoted, tender nature.
- In numerology it vibrates to the number 7, associated with reflection, inner wisdom and a quiet search for meaning.
Spiritual Growth
- Kunzite is regarded as a stone of unconditional love, encouraging people to extend the same kindness to themselves that they give to others.
- Its pleochroic shifts of color are sometimes taken as a reminder that each person shows different light from every angle.
Physical Healing
- Kunzite is traditionally said to alleviate panic attacks and to help regulate the circulatory system, though it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
- Anyone experiencing panic attacks or circulatory symptoms should seek qualified medical care, using the stone only as a comforting companion.
Care and handling
Kunzite fades with prolonged exposure to strong sunlight and heat, so store it out of direct light. It has perfect cleavage, so it can split or chip with a sharp blow, and it should avoid ultrasonic cleaners and sudden temperature changes. Clean it with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth, and dry well.
Individual experiences with Kunzite vary and are always personal. Hold it gently and mindfully, and let its soft pink light remind you to meet yourself and others with kindness.