Kunzite: The Heart-Opening Crystal
Kunzite is found in exotic locales like Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, and sunny California, this gem has a charm that’s hard to resist. Named after the legendary gemologist George Frederick Kunz, Kunzite has a story as enchanting as its appearance.
A Peek into Kunzite’s Crystal World
Imagine holding a Kunzite crystal recovered from the Oceanview Mine in California. These crystals, with their perfect cleavage directions, are pleochroic – a fancy way of saying their color shifts depending on how you look at them. Cutters know this and carefully orient the gems to bring out their best hues, sometimes even cutting them deep to enhance the pink to violet spectrum.
And size? Kunzite doesn’t shy away from making a statement. The Smithsonian Institution boasts an 880-carat heart-shaped Kunzite – talk about a showstopper!
Enhancing the Beauty: Treatments and Care
Kunzite can undergo irradiation and heat treatment to boost its color. However, whether treated or natural, its vibrant shades can fade when exposed to heat and bright light. So, think twice before flaunting your Kunzite jewelry at a beach party!
The Journey from Discovery to Fame
Kunzite’s journey to fame began in 1902 when unidentified pink crystals were discovered in California and sent to Tiffany & Co.’s George Frederick Kunz. Confirming these were spodumene but with a twist, Kunz recognized a new variety. In 1903, Charles Baskerville, a chemistry professor, honored Kunz by naming the gem after him. Since then, Kunzite has become a favorite in the world of fine jewelry, despite its tricky cleavage making it challenging to cut.
The Energetic Essence of Kunzite
Now, let’s dive into the metaphysical pool. Kunzite isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a heart opener. Imagine your heart acting like a vacuum, drawing in love from every direction – for humanity, nature, animals, and our planet. Kunzite unlocks what’s called Divine Love, filling you with kindness, gentleness, and self-worth. It’s like having a pocketful of positivity.
Kunzite also bridges the gap between your heart and mind, clearing emotional blockages. This connection is crucial when navigating those tricky feelings we all encounter.
