Where is Unakite found?
Unakite (altered granite composed of epidote, pink orthoclase feldspar, and quartz)
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Open the appUnakite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Unakite
Unaka Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee, USA
The type locality for Unakite, where it was first discovered and named. Found in the Unaka Range of the Appalachian Mountains.
Virginia, USA
Significant deposits are found in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, particularly in the Shenandoah National Park area.
South Africa
Occurrences reported in various regions, often associated with granitic intrusions.
Brazil
Found in several states, typically in areas with Precambrian granitic basement rocks.
China
Deposits have been identified in various provinces.
Sierra Leone
Known for its unakite occurrences.
Collecting tips
- Geological Maps. Consult geological maps of areas known for granitic intrusions and hydrothermal alteration zones. Look for regions with Precambrian or Paleozoic granites.
- Riverbeds and Glacial Till. Unakite is durable and often found as pebbles and cobbles in riverbeds and glacial till, having been transported from its source rock.
- Outcrops. Look for outcrops of altered granite in mountainous regions or areas with exposed basement rock. The distinctive green and pink coloration can be a good indicator.
- Associated Minerals. While Unakite itself is a rock, the presence of epidote-rich veins or altered granites in an area can indicate potential Unakite occurrences.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Mottled green (epidote), pink (orthoclase), and colorless/grey (quartz).
- Luster:
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous.
- Streak:
- White (for quartz and feldspar components), greenish-white (for epidote component).
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