If there is one word experts use to define tsavorite garnet it is rarity.. Studies carried out on this stone show that it has a powerful shine, attractive color and double refraction, but despite this, almost none of these gems reaches two carats, a determining factor in their final price.
Tsavorite is the name by which we know this stone today and is due to the Tsavo Park in Kenya where it was discovered in the seventies by the Scottish geologist Campbell R. Bridges. In addition to Kenya, the stone can also be found in Tanzania, India, Brazil, Canada, Italy and Madagascar. At first glance it is a mineral similar to emerald, since both have vanadium and chrome, the agents that provide its green color.
Although its commercial exploitation began in the 20th century, The uses and properties associated with this mineral are recorded in biblical records, when it was called garnet. In ancient times, tsavorite was considered a symbol of virtues, rather than a gemstone. It is considered the stone of faith, perseverance and truth and was prized among travelers as a protective amulet.
The introduction of tsavorite in the commercial market was made in 1976, nothing more and nothing less than the famed Tifanny jewelry house in New York. Although commercially this name was well received for its association with one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world, to date it has not been accepted by the International Mineralogical Association.organization in which they refer to it as green grossular garnet.
Tsavorite is a delicate and highly coveted mineral in the market. Those who work with the select stones know that they do not admit steam cleaning treatments, ultrasound, or any synthetic enhancement treatment, which makes the tsavorite is considered a true wild stone.
In the world of jewelry, this green garnet is considered a generous mineral for molding and assembly work, since as it is a stone with unique refraction there is no limitation due to pleochroism as it is oriented in different ways against light, with which the carver achieves better results when working it.
In the commercial field, the refractory properties that give tsavorite its special shine are the most exploited to promote its beauty and justify its value.
The unique conditions of tsavorite have also made it an object of desire among collectors who seek to have among their pieces one of extreme rarity and that is also considered scarce, thanks to the difficulty of finding one that meets the desired weight standards. in the market. With that background, it appears that when it comes to a beautiful and unique stone, few can compete with this one.