Kunzite is the pink variety of spodumene and is one of two gemstone varieties. The other variety is green and is called Hiddenite. Kunzite is strongly pleochroic, meaning there is a color intensity variation when a crystal is viewed from the top or bottom then from other directions. The top and bottom of the crystal reveal the deepest colors and knowleagable gem cutters take advantage of its effects. Due to kunzite's cleavage, splintery fracture and strong pleochroism it is considered a real gem cutters challenge. However, its lovely pink color makes kunzite an attractive and desirable gemstone.