Introduction to Tasvorite Stone

Tasvorite Stone

Tsavorite is one of the most gorgeous, green gemstones that has captured the hearts of so many gem enthusiasts and collectors in the world. With its strong, intense color, rarity, and exceptional brilliance, it indeed became one of the most prized garnets sought after by many. Here in this guide, we will delve into everything there is to know about this beautiful gemstone – its history, properties, benefits, and how to choose the best Tsavorite for your collection.

Table of Content :

1. What is Tsavorite?
2. Properties of Tsavorite
3. The Difference Between Tsavorite and Emerald
4. Choosing the Best Tsavorite
5. Tsavorite in Jewelry
6. How to Care for Tsavorite Jewelry
7. Price and Value of Tsavorite
8. Conclusion

What is Tsavorite?

Introduction

This variety of grossular garnet has a brilliant green color. It can go as light green to a deep, rich emerald color. Tsavorite was discovered in East Africa in the 1960’s. Its brilliant color and brightness made it so popular at once. The name Tsavorite comes from the name the Tsavo National Park in Kenya. This is because that was where the first discovery of the gem was made. Tsavorite is an all-natural gem since it is not treated or enhanced for use.

Discovery of Tsavorite

History and Origin

Tsavorite was first recognized by a Scottish geologist, Campbell Bridges, in 1967 while prospecting in Tanzania close to the Kenya border. He soon realized that the mineral he had discovered in the mountains within the near proximity of the Tsavo National Park was a green grossular garnet. Commercial mining of Tsavorite began in the 1970s and Kenya is till this day one of its primary sources.

Campbell Bridges and the Opening to the Market

Campbell Bridges found Tsavorite but it was not taken to the market at once. It came to the international market when in the 1970s, the famous American jeweler, Tiffany & Co., began its promotions of the Tsavorite. This brought about more demand for the stone and it went into the international market.

Properties of Tsavorite

Color and Brightness

The Lively Green Color
The most noticeable characteristic of tsavorite is its brilliant green color, which is amongst the best emeralds. The color of the gemstone ranges from pale to deep green due to content in chromium and vanadium. Tsavorite is hence distinguished by such a bright green color and thus very much in demand for jewelry.

Brilliance and Lustre
Tsavorite is a highly brilliant gemstone due to its very high refractive index being 1.734 to 1.759. Its brilliance is often more than that of an emerald, making Tsavorite the best choice for those seeking green gemstones that shine bright with excellent fire. Not like emeralds that have been treated to be presented as nice, Tsavorite shines spontaneously, and clarity combined with brightness will dazzle.

Toughness and Hardness

Moh’s Scale Rating
Tsavorite, the gemstone, is rated between 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This ensures that it is strong enough for everyday wear. The toughness of Tsavorite is similar to many popular accessible gemstones, such as amethyst and topaz, that are relatively immune to scratches and damage.

Toughness and Durability
Not only is the Tsavorite hard, but also very tough-a property that makes it not bow to regular wear and tear. This is somewhat engineered and in full relation to its hardness, making it robust and incapable of breakdown, hence it is ideal for kinds of jewelery, rings, earrings, pendants, among others.

The Difference Between Tsavorite and Emerald

Tsavorite vs. Emerald: A Comparison
Although Tsavorite and emerald may almost share the same green color, they are pretty different in composition, treatment, and even price. Here is a quick comparison:
Feature Tsavorite Emerald
Color Vibrant green, natural Green, often enhanced with oil
Durability 7-7.5 on Mohs scale, very durable 7.5-8 on Mohs scale, but more brittle
Treatments No treatments required Often treated with oils or resins
Price More affordable than emeralds Generally more expensive

Color and Treatment
One of the notable differences between Tsavorite and emerald is the treatment. To elaborate, the green color of Tsavorite is entirely natural, free from any enhancements. On the other hand, emeralds generally have to undergo some treatment through oils or resins that contribute toward enhancing their color and clarity. This makes Tsavorite an excellent choice for those who prefer an untreated gemstone.

Durability
Tsavorite is also harder than emeralds since it does not have the internal fractures that emeralds often possess. This makes Tsavorite better for those who would like a green gem that can withstand daily wear without risking any chipping or breaking.

Choosing the Best Tsavorite

Factors to Consider
There are various reasons that will determine the quality and price of a Tsavorite gem. The following are the most relevant factors;

Color
Color is the fundamental consideration when selecting a Tsavorite. The stronger green color of the stone, the more valuable it is. Rich deep green colors are among the most sought-after Tsavorites, but much lighter shades can be stunningly beautiful and valuable too.

Clarity
Like most gemstones, Tsavorite is also graded on clarity. High-quality Tsavorites are eye-clean with no inclusions at all. Though small inclusions might be evident, the finest Tsavorites are transparent and clear, letting maximum light pass through the stone.

Cut
The cut of a Tsavorite can make all the difference as far as brilliance and fire go. Cut stones will flash light beautifully, giving an illusion that the gem is even more alive than it really is. Common cuts applied for Tsavorite gemstones are oval, round, and cushion, though some custom cuts are also possible.

Carat Weight
Most of the Tsavorites are smaller in size, but bigger stones are rather rare and very expensive. Most of the Tsavorites weighing less than two carats are sold in the market today. Stones larger than two carats are rather rare and pricier.

Tsavorite in Jewelry

Popular Tsavorite Jewelry Pieces
Tsavorite is such a versatile gem stone. In various jewelry forms, it can be used. For jewelers to particularly love this gem, it’s due to its durability and the good vibrancy of the color. Some of the most popular jewelry featuring this gemstone are as follows.

Tsavorite Rings
Perfect for someone looking for something extraordinary, standout jewelry, tsavorite rings are truly perfect. Whether encrusted as a solitaire or surrounded by diamonds, the Tsavorite rings feature brilliant flashes of color that are both elegant and timelessness.

Tsavorite Earrings
Tsavorite earrings-the studs, drops, or hoops form a majestic piece in any gemstone jewelry collection. The color of the stone is lively deep green, adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit and brightening up your overall look.

Tsavorite Necklaces and Pendants
This is a showpiece in any jewelry wardrobe-the Tsavorite necklace or pendant. The Tsavorite pendant is to be worn as a statement or layered over and under other necklaces. Elegant yet sophisticated, Tsavorite pendants shine.

How to Care for Tsavorite Jewelry

Cleaning Tsavorite Gemstones
Cleaning your Tsavorite jewelry piece is not too much of a chore. To keep your Tsavorite jewelry sparkling, here are a few tips

1. Warm, soapy water with a soft brush-Using clean, soapy warm water and a soft brush in cleaning of your Tsavorite jewelry can be considered. Avoid chemical or cleaners-based cleaning agents.
2. Rinse Well-Rinse out any soap from your jewelry
3. Dry using a Soft cloth-Gently dab with a smooth, lint-free cloth

Storing Tsavorite Jewelry
Proper storage would be necessary for the beauty to be retained in Tsavorite jewelry. Store it in a soft pouch or separate compartment when you are not wearing it such that the piece would not scratch other jewelry pieces. You should also not expose the Tsavorite stone to extreme heat or rapid temperature change since it may crack.

Price and Value of Tsavorite

Trend in Tsavorite Market
Tsavorite has grown to be very popular over the years, and this fact has contributed a lot to the increase in price. The rarity of the gemstone, its all-natural color, and durability make it a very valuable gemstone to add to any jewelry collection.

Factors Influencing Prices of Tsavorites
Several factors decide the price of Tsavorite. Color, clarity, cut, and carat weight all factor into the varying prices. For instance, stones that have deep green colors, excellent clarity, and well-proportioned cuts will sell expensively. Also, over two carats, sizes are rare and costlier.

Conclusion

A rare and beautiful gem that has never been seen before – beauty, rarity, and durability all combined. Brilliant color and no treatment make it a jewel in the eyes of every collector and jewelry enthusiast. Whatever the attraction may be, spiritual or physical, Tsavorite is surely a gem to add to your collection.