11.31 Ct. Kunzite from Afghanistan

There is a special, enduring beauty in gemstones that carry a story of place and time, and this extraordinary oval pink kunzite from Afghanistan speaks to that legacy with quiet authority. Named kunzite in honor of the legendary gemologist George Frederick Kunz, spodumene varieties like this one have been prized since the early twentieth century for their rare, soft hues and crystalline clarity. This particular example weighs 11.31 carats and measures 13.91 by 11.12 by 9.84 millimeters, a substantial size that allows its mixed brilliant cut facets to play with light in a way that feels both modern and timeless. The medium intense pink color is the result of thoughtful heat treatment that enhances the stone without compromising its natural character, and the excellent polish gives each facet a crisp, mirror like finish. The clarity is graded very very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which ensures a clean visual field for the color to shine through while also offering the sort of natural inclusions that collectors and connoisseurs value as proof of origin and authenticity. When you hold this kunzite, you hold a piece of Afghanistan in your hand, a gem that bridges ancient geological processes and contemporary craftsmanship, presented to you by The Natural Gemstone Company.

Beyond its poetic provenance, this kunzite is a gemstone designed to be worn and enjoyed, not merely admired in a drawer. Kunzite sits at about 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which places it in a firm range for everyday jewelry when mounted with care. The mixed brilliant cut and excellent polish that this gem exhibits contribute to a resilient surface that resists abrasion in normal wear, and the generous proportions give settings room to protect its table and girdle. Heat treatment performed to enrich the color is a stable enhancement, and when the gem is set in a protective design such as a bezel, halo, or low profile mount, it becomes ideally suited for rings, pendants, and bracelets that are intended for frequent wear. It is important to recognize that kunzite has a distinct crystalline cleavage, and as with any fine gem that shows this characteristic, impact resistance is best achieved by designing the piece with the stone shielded from blunt knocks. With a considered setting and mindful habits, this kunzite will reward daily wear with enduring beauty and consistent performance.

To care for this piece and preserve its inherited splendor is to participate in a tradition that spans generations, making it a perfect candidate for an heirloom quality commission. Clean the gem gently with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, and avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners to maintain the polish and color integrity. Keep it from prolonged exposure to intense direct sunlight to prevent any potential light related fading, and remove it before strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or contact with hard surfaces. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the authenticity and origin story of this Afghan kunzite, and we are pleased to assist with custom settings that emphasize protection and classical elegance so that the gem can be worn every day with confidence. Envision it set in a warm gold bezel that complements the pink tone, or held aloft in a vintage inspired gallery that lets light animate its mixed brilliant facets for generations to come, a true testament to the timelessness of natural beauty.