The Tsavorite
A rare, vibrant green garnet revered for its remarkable brilliance and natural beauty.
Overview
Tsavorite is a fairly new gem compared to other green jewels like emeralds and peridots. Discovered in 1967 and officially introduced to the jewelry industry in 1974, its rarity has caused its popularity among connoisseurs and collectors to soar.
Like tanzanite, tsavorite is found in only one place on earth: Africa. Named after Kenya's Tsavo National Park, its primary sources are in Kenya's Taita and Tanzania's Arusha region. While many compare it to lush emeralds, tsavorite is actually a highly expensive variety of grossular garnet, celebrated for its limited availability, eye-catching brilliance, and spectacular color.
Symbolism
Because the tsavorite is reasonably young compared to other garnet varieties, the symbolism associated with this gem revolves heavily around its intense green hue.
This color has long been considered the trademark of nature, representing abundance, rebirth, and prosperity. It is believed to not only look great but also refresh the eyes and the senses, adding a powerful allure to this beautiful gemstone's overall appeal.
Physical Properties & Quality
Hardness & Strength
On the Mohs scale, tsavorite holds a rating of 7 to 7.5, indicating considerable durability. While it isn't exceptionally hard, it certainly isn't fragile either. Tsavorite can be worn and enjoyed in various jewelry styles, provided you take standard care and precautions.
Treatment
The glorious green color of the tsavorite is completely natural. Unlike many popular gemstones that undergo various treatments to improve appearance, tsavorites only need to be cut and polished. Man-made or lab-created versions do not exist in the market.
Color & Clarity
An excellent tsavorite displays a rich green color colored by vanadium (and sometimes chromium). Avoid pale stones or those with yellow undertones. As a Type 2 gemstone, tiny feather-like inclusions are normal, but stones with flaws visible to the naked eye must be avoided entirely.
Cut & Carat Weight
With a high refractive index, tsavorite disperses light beautifully, especially in oval, cushion, emerald, and trillion cuts. Because it's hard to find in large sizes (though available up to 3 carats), buyers should always prioritize high quality over high carat weight.
Tsavorite Grading System
Top 1%
In terms of quality, these represent the top 1% of tsavorites available. They exhibit a vivid, deep green hue and have only very slight inclusions.
Top 10%
Highly brilliant and radiating an intense green hue, these stones possess only slight inclusions and represent the top 10% of the market.
Top 33%
This category features tsavorites that have a beautiful medium green hue, accompanied by noticeable inclusions.
Top 75%
These entry-level tsavorites display a lighter green color and are characterized by more apparent surface inclusions.
Tsavorite Care Instructions
With a 7 to 7.5 Mohs rating, tsavorite is durable for everyday wear. However, to keep it safe from unnecessary damage and maintain its brilliance, please make a note of the following points:
- No Ultrasonic Cleaning: Ultrasonic and steam cleaning must be strictly avoided. Vibrations and heat weaken the structure and can cause internal fractures.
- Avoid Chemicals: Harsh detergents, bleach, and cosmetics can cause irreparable damage over time. Keep your jewelry away from them.
- Gentle Washing: Clean your jewelry using an ultra-mild soap water solution and gentle scrubbing. Rinse off any residue thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
- Professional Checks: Consider having your tsavorite jewelry cleaned and inspected by a professional jeweler at least once every year.
- Store Separately: Tougher gems like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires can scratch your tsavorite. Store pieces safely in a fabric-lined box or soft pouch.