TSAVORITE GARNET
Tsavorite is the emerald-like colored variety of garnet. Garnets are nesosilicate minerals and they constitute an isomorphous series, that is, their crystal structure is basically the same (X3Y2(SiO3)4), but they differ in their chemical compositions. There are over 20 different garnet species, but only 6 of them are considered to be gem-worthy, some of which include a few varieties. These species are pyrope, almandine, spessartite, grossularite, andradite and uvarovite. Tsavorite is a calcium-alluminum nesosilicate mineral (Ca3Al2(SiO3)4) and is one of the varieties under the Garnet Grossularite species, together with gossular garnet and hessonite, among others.
Tsavorite is actually a grossular with a more saturated color, colored by chrome or vanadium. Tsavorite has a high luster and an attractive emerald Green color, as well as a clear yellowish Green color in the lower qualities. Tsavorite is considered a good affordable replacement for the emerald. Comparing it to the expensive gemstone, the tsavorite commonly shows better clarity grade, higher luster and lower price.
Tsavorite was discovered in 1967 in the Tsavo National Park near the border between Tanzania and Kenya, from which it received its name.
LEGEND AND LORE
Garnets in every variety are birthstones of the month of January. It is traditionally given on the 2nd and 6th wedding anniversaries.
Tsavorite is considered a increase wealth in all aspects of one's being, financial, artistic, emotional, creative, as well as physical.
GARNET, TSAVORITE COLORS
Tsavorite garnet colors range from yellowish Green (12) to bluish Green (17), where the common colors are moderately to highly saturated Green or yellowish Green. It is colored by chrome or vanadium.
GARNET, TSAVORITE SOURCES
Tsavorite is mined in Tanzania, Kenya, and Madagascar.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Variety: Tsavorite
Species/Series: Garnet, Grossularite
Chemical Composition: Calcium-Aluminum Nesosilicate (Ca3Al2(SiO3)4)
Crystal System: Isometric (Cubic)
Color: yellowish Green to bluish Green (17), common colors are moderately to highly saturated Green or yellowish Green
Hardness: 7.0 to 7.5
Refractive Index: 1.740 (+0.020/-0.010)
Specific Gravity: 3.61 (+0.12/-0.04)
For information on other Garnet varieties, select Garnet in the Gem Type field and click on the Read More icon.
Properties: RI 1.74 HARDNESS 7-7.5 SPECIFIC GRAVITY 3.61 SPECIES-GROSSULARITE OPTIC CHARACTER-SR PHENOMENA-NONE
Reactions: Ultrasonic: Usually safe Steamer: Never Heat: Fair-poor;temperature changes may cause fracturing Chemicals: Hydrofluoric acid
Major Sources: Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, Brazil, India
Specific Gravity: 3.61
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