kunzite

[ koonts-ahyt ]

noun

, Mineralogy.

1. a transparent lilac-colored variety of spodumene, used as a gem.

kunzite

/ ˈkʊntsaɪt /

noun

1. a pink-coloured transparent variety of the mineral spodumene: a gemstone

Word History and Origins

Origin of kunzite¹

1900–05, Americanism; named after G. F. Kunz (1856–1932), American expert in precious stones; -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of kunzite¹

C20: named after George F. Kunz (1856–1932), US gem expert

Example Sentences

Tiffany named the gem in his honor: kunzite.

From New York Times

In the mix of pieces, some of which have a butterfly design, is this diamond and kunzite crystal necklace.

From Los Angeles Times

The family that provides her kunzite were her neighbors in San Diego until they moved to their native Afghanistan.

From New York Times

Jewelry made with pastel-colored gems like kunzite, paraiba tourmaline and mauve spinel plays a supporting role to diamond pieces.

From New York Times

Of growing importance are the gems found in California: a few diamonds in Butte county; rock crystal in Calaveras county; and tourmalines, kunzite, the rare pink beryl and bright blue topazes in San Diego county.

From Project Gutenberg