Unakite Gemstone Beads
Unakite is a captivating gemstone, predominantly a blend of green epidote, pink orthoclase feldspar, and clear to milky quartz. This stone exhibits a granitic texture and is formed through the metamorphism of granite or shale. The unique and intricate intergrowth of these minerals makes each bead a distinct piece, reflecting its geological journey.
Facts: Unakite carries a rich history, originally discovered in the United States in the Unakas mountains of North Carolina. It is often used in decorative stonework and considered a stone of vision, traditionally used by Native Americans. Its earthy colors and resilient composition have made it a favorite among artisans and collectors alike.
Metaphysical / Holistic: Unakite is believed to promote balance and emotional stability. It is said to enhance psychic visions and facilitate rebirth, helping to release past burdens and foster personal growth.
Unakite 2x4mm Heishi - 15-16 Inch
Original price
$14.00
-
Original price
$14.00
Original price
$14.00
$14.00
-
$14.00
Unakite is a granite composed of pink Feldspar and Epidote, creating a beautiful blend of pink and green in mottled patterns. The colors in this st...
View full details
Original price
$14.00
-
Original price
$14.00
Original price
$14.00
$14.00
-
$14.00
About this stone
Color
GreenPinkMottled Pink-and-Green
Origin
USA (North Carolina)South AfricaChinaBrazil
Mohs hardness
6–7
Treatment categories
Natural
Industry-standard treatment
Natural — unakite is not typically treated
Mineral chemistry
Altered granite — green epidote, pink orthoclase feldspar, and quartz
Crystal system
Mixed (composite rock)
Stone family
Granite
Common cuts
RoundFaceted Round
Common sizes
4mm6mm8mm10mm
Care notes
Durable (Mohs 6–7). Mild soap and soft cloth.
Related stones
Epidote, Feldspar, Granite
Frequently asked questions
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What is unakite made of?
Unakite is a granitic rock — an altered granite composed primarily of pink orthoclase feldspar and green epidote, with clear-to-milky quartz as a third component in varying proportions. The intergrowth of these three minerals produces the characteristic pink-and-green speckled appearance. Each bead is a cross-section of that intergrowth, and the proportion of pink to green varies bead to bead. -
Is unakite a jasper?
No. Unakite is sometimes traded as "unakite jasper," but the label is a misnomer. Jasper is microcrystalline quartz colored by mineral inclusions; unakite is a granitic composite rock in which the colors come from distinct mineral grains (feldspar for the pink, epidote for the green) intergrown with quartz. The two stones are mineralogically different. Dakota carries the stone under its correct name, unakite. -
Where does unakite come from?
The variety was first identified in the Unaka mountains of western North Carolina, which gave the stone its name. Current commercial material is sourced from several deposits — North Carolina and Virginia in the United States, South Africa, China, Zimbabwe, and Brazil among the most common. The visual character is broadly consistent across deposits. Origin should be disclosed where the supplier has disclosed it — ask before buying if it isn't specified. -
Is unakite dyed?
No. Unakite is sold natural across the trade, and every active unakite strand in Dakota's catalog is untreated. The pink-and-green palette is intrinsic — the pink is orthoclase feldspar, the green is epidote, and the matrix is quartz. There is no dye involved in producing the characteristic colors. -
How durable is unakite for daily wear?
Mohs approximately 6–7, varying with the proportion of quartz to feldspar in any given bead. Durable enough for any jewelry application including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings; suitable for occasional ring wear. Standard care: wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap. As an untreated stone, there is no concern about dye fade or about ultrasonic or steam cleaning leaching pigment from the stone.