Tsavorite is a type of garnet which is green or emerald colored. Although it forms with calcium aluminum silicate, its intense green coloration is usually the result of chromium or vanadium. And though it is often confused with emeralds, it was discovered more recently in 1967 and isn’t as well known.

The Origins of Tsavorite

The term “tsavorite” is derived from the gem’s place of origin, which is Tanzania. Unlike other gemstones, which can be found in multiple locations worldwide, tsavorite can only be found near the Tanzanian Tsavo National Park. Campbell Bridges, a gemologist from Scotland was the first man to discover it. A buffalo charged him but he managed to escape by entering a gully, where he saw greenish rocks which glinted from the sunlight. Upon further investigation he would recognize that this was a unique and previously unknown gem, and would team up with Tiffany to introduce it to the world.

Tsavorite Characteristics

Tsavorite has a Moh’s hardness scale of 6.5 to 7.5. The best way to identify and separate it from emeralds is through the usage of a robust neodymium magnet. The garnet gemstones are often drawn to neodymium style magnets since they have higher concentrations of manganese and iron. Aside from green, tsavorite might also appear in yellow/green or blue green, but a dark green color is the most desirable manifestation.

This gemstone has a luster and clarity which ranges from opaque to transparent, and is vitreous in appearance. Its refractive index is quite high, which results in an exceptional gleam. The most desirable stones are eye catching and free of inclusions. Specimens which are opaque or translucent will usually but cut into cabochons, but might also be sliced into shapes which are faceted. Since this stone is rarely found in bigger sizes, jewelers prefer shapes which will retain the greatest carat weight. Additionally, unlike other stones, which might be subject to various forms of treatment, tsavorite is never enhanced.

Wearing and Caring for Tsavorite Jewelry

Tsavorite is well suited to jewelry making due to its brilliance and lovely luster. It works best when set with either yellow or white precious metals, and it might also be utilized for statement gemstones where it can be combined with colored gems in a type of cascade. For this reason, many jewelers combine it with diamonds or gems which are colorless such as white topaz or white sapphire. The smaller size of tsavorite means that it can be set using a pave style, which produces an effect similar to larger specimens. Its pave settings make it valuable for flower brooches, and it can also be used within rings due to its exceptional durability.

When purchasing tsavorite, always make your buying decision based on size rather than carat weight. To care for it, you’ll want to use water which is warm and soapy with a cloth that is soft. Rinse it well to eliminate all traces of residue, and as with other gems you’ll want to avoid ultrasonic cleaners. Tsavorite should be stored away from other stones and removed prior to engaging in exercises or sports activities.