The beautiful gemstones we know today are results of natural processes and unakite is no exception. In this blog we dive into the origin, formation and meaning of unakite.
- Zodiac: Scorpio
The History and Origin of Unakite
Unakite was found in 1874 by American geologist Frank Bradley in the Unaka Range mountains in the USA, which it is named after. It can also be found in South Africa, Brazil and China. Globally, unakite doesn't have a big historical importance, because it has gained popularity in more recent times.
Unakite is also known as Pompton Pink Granite, which was used as architectural stones in New Jersey in the 1900's. It was mostly used for monuments, such as the St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Paterson. It was constructed in 1895 and this granite / unakite was used for the exterior and interior.
Formation
Unakite is a metamorphic rock. It's altered granite composed of pink orthoclase feldspar, green epidote and clear quartz. Due to methamorphic processes it begins to alter its mineral composition. The feldspar causes the pink colors and epidote produces the green colors. The quartz stays clear, but helps with the durability and may recrystallize.
The Meaning of Unakite
Certain specialists provide information about the meaning and healing properties of gemstones. But when I'm seeking more meaning behind a stone, the first thing I do is learn about how the stone is formated. The creation of gemstones is a methaphor in itself. Often heat and pressure is needed for stunning results, which translates to how we go through life's challenges for a higher purpose, or a destination that is not yet known to us.
Unakite reminds us that, in time, we can evolve to our best selves. Just like unakite is composed of 3 minerals, we carry our own stories and experiences through life. Its green colors are grounding and is a way to connect with nature. The pink colors symbolise empathy and love. And the clear quartz, whether visible or not, contributes to the overall durability of unakite, which raises the question: what is something you need to keep doing what you love to do?
This poetic way of looking at gemstones may be untraditional, but at Poppin' Patterns we love to shift perspectives!
Unakite in Jewelry
Unakite is mostly popular in commercial jewelry, rather than fine jewelry. You will often see unakite beads, pendants or cabochons incorporated in fascinating jewelry pieces.
