tsavorite

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Gucci's "Dionysus" bracelet in 18K gold with tsavorite eyes

Variety:  Tsavorite
Species:  Grossularite
Group:  Garnet
Mohs Hardness:  6.5 to 7.5 out of 10
Color:  Medium to dark green to yellowish green
RI:  1.740 (+0.20 / -0.10)
Birefringence:  None
SR/DR/AGG:  SR
Clarity Type:  Type II
Pleochroism:  None
Spectrum:  Not diagnostic
Fluorescence:  Near colorless to light green stones are inert to weak orange under LW.  Weak yellow-orange under SW.
SG:  3.61 (+0.12 / - 0.04)
Routine Treatments:  None

tsavorite facts

A rare conch pearl, diamond and tsavorite ring

Garnets occur in nearly every color.

Tsavorite garnet ranges in color from medium to dark green, to yellowish green, and is most prized in vivid green hues.
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While tsavorite was first discovered in 1967, in Tanzania, it didn't receive broader recognition until 1974, when Tiffany & Co. launched a marketing campaign promoting the gem.

Gem quality tsavorites are rare in sizes over 3 carats, and can be very expensive.
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All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)