Kunzite is a variety of spodumene, which is defined by its purple, violet, pink or lilac color. This coloration results from the presence of manganese within the spodumene structure. However, because spodumene crystals are strongly pleochroic, the observed hue and/or intensity will depend on the stone's orientation or the angle from which it is viewed.
The gemstone has a relatively short history, having been first described by George F. Kunz at the turn of the twentieth century in San Diego, California. However, most of the world's kunzite supply now comes from Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan, while Madagascar and Brazil are also significant sources for the gem.
It should be noted that the hues of some kunzite gemstones may fade upon prolonged exposure to sunlight, with previously irradiated stones being especially prone to losing color in this way.