Unakite is an altered
granite composed of pin k orthoclase feldspar, green epidote, and
generally colorless quartz, first discovered in the United States in
the Unakas mountains of North Carolina.

Unakite can be found as pebbles and cobbles from glacial
drift in the beach rock on the shores of Lake Superior. It occurs in
Virginia where it is found in the river valleys after having been
washed down from the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Unakite is first and mainly found in the U.S.A. However,
Unakite is not limited to the United States, and is reported from South
Africa, Sierra Leone, Brazil, and China as well as the United States.
Some material labeled unakite lacks the quartz and is more properly
epidosite.

This granite gemstone is an interesting mix of red/pink feldspar,
white/gray quartz and epidote. Its spring colors and compact, hard
structure make it a nice stone for jewelry.

It was named for the Unaka Mountains in the Southeastern U.S.A.,
where it was first discovered. Unakite is relatively new to the market
but is growing in popularity.

Unakite is purported to stimulate the health of the heart and circulatory systems, and ensure a healthy reproductive system.