(source: gia.edu)
Kunzite is one of our favorite gems at Secrete Fine Jewelry. Kunzite is a relatively unknown gemstone, but its soft, feminine beauty is too pretty to pass up, making it one of the most underappreciated gemstones we know.
Kunzite is a variety of spodumene, which also makes up hiddenite. It is a relatively “new” gemstone, only having been discovered in 1902. Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, and California are the most significant sources of this beautiful stone. They are named for George Frederick Kunz, a mineralogist who was sent to California to identify these lavender-hued gems when they were first uncovered. These gorgeous stones naturally occur in large crystals, but because of a two-directional cleavage formation in their crystalline forms, they can be very difficult to cut.
Famous Kunzites
Elizabeth Taylor had a famously beautiful necklace of kunzites, diamonds, and amethysts in 18k yellow gold. These lovely violet stones matched her famous purple eyes. The necklace sold at auction in 2011 for over $400,000.
The Picasso Kunzite necklace at the Smithsonian Institute here in Washington, DC, features a 396.30ct heart shaped kunzite set in a pearl necklace. (Source: si.edu)
Angela Bassett looked beautiful in kunzite earrings at the 2019 Academy Awards. These beautiful earrings featured 75.83cts of kunzite, and 14.65cts of diamonds, set in 18K rose gold that were a perfect match to her sculptural pink gown.
Queen Maxima of the Netherlands is rarely seen without her beautiful kunzite and diamond ring. This softly colored gem is a favorite of the Dutch royal, and she often matches the rings with kunzite earrings, brooches, and necklaces for special occasions.
Custom designed kunzite jewelry
Secrete Fine Jewelry custom created this joyous ring for one of our loveliest clients several years ago. The octogenarian who chose this elegant kunzite ring with its happy color was a Holocaust survivor and philanthropist whose life was dedicated to spreading wellness and joy. We think her choice of the cheery color in this stunning ring is testament to her resilience and warm heart.
Kunzites come in a range of colors from pinkish lilacs and mauves to cooler lavenders. These stunning gems look equally beautiful in different types of metals. White gold and platinum let their pastel color take center stage, while rose gold plays up the pink hues in the stone, and yellow gold creates that classic regal look of purple and gold. Their sparkle is accentuated when they’re paired with diamonds, but we also love the way they interact with other colors of stones, whether it’s in an all purple palette with amethysts or violet sapphires or in combination with contrasting tones like green tourmalines or aquamarines.
Because of their natural availability in larger sizes, kunzites make excellent statement pieces. Whether you’re looking for a gorgeous cocktail ring, a show-stopping pendant, or glamorous earrings, the design team at Secrete will provide amazing designs to showcase the soft and elegant color that makes us love kunzite so much. Our expert craftsmen can even custom cut your kunzite to showcase its special sparkle.
Kunzite is also a good choice of colored gemstones for those who shy away from very bold colors. Pale rosy purples are universally flattering on all skin tones, and pastels can be more versatile than primary colors, looking appropriate day or night. When clients want a little cheer of color in their jewelry without committing to an intense color story, kunzites are often just right.
If you’d like to explore the little-known world of kunzite treasures in person, you can visit us in DuPont Circle in Washington, DC, or the Wildwood Shopping Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Or, contact us today to learn more. Our bespoke design services are available to clients near and far, allowing us to connect with you on a one-to-one basis no matter where you are.
