Pink/Purple Kunzite

Pink/Purple Kunzite From Madagascar 4.33CT 

Kunzite is a stunning, highly pleochroic gemstone (a variety of spodumene) that naturally shifts between delicate pastel pinks, cool lavenders, and rich, vibrant violet-purples. Named after famed Tiffany & Co. gemologist George Frederick Kunz, its distinct color is caused by trace amounts of manganese. 

Key traits of kunzite include:

• Optical Shift: It exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning the color shifts and appears different depending on the angle you view the crystal.
• Hardness: It rates 6.5 to 7.0 on the Mohs scale, meaning it's reasonably scratch-resistant but prone to cleaving.
• Light Sensitivity: Often called the "evening stone," it is known to fade with prolonged, direct exposure to sunlight.
• Crystal Size: It often forms in large crystals, making substantial carat weights readily available.