Tsavorite is a rare member of the 'garnet' family which is the birthstone for the month of January. It is an emerald-green variety of Grossular Garnet and one of the most popular and expensive Garnets due to its rarity. It was first discovered in Tanzania in 1967 and in 1971 it was also found in the same geological formation across the border in Kenya near Tsavo National Park, a wildlife preserve in the African Serengeti. It was named after that national park by both Campbell Bridges, the discoverer of Tsavorite, and by Henry Platt, the president of Tiffany & Co.

Tsavorite gemstones are not enhanced and their colors are always natural. The color of Tsavorite can rival Emerald but contrary to Emerald it exhibits fewer inclusions and can be flawless. Tsavorite is much rarer in nature than Emerald and large gemstones are very costly (i.e. thousands per carat). The best Tsavorite color is a deep emerald green; lighter tones and yellowish hues are less desirable. The green is caused by trace amounts of the elements chromium or vanadium in its chemical structure.

Mineral Class: Grossular (Garnet)

Chemical Formula: Ca3Al2Si3O12

Hardness: 7- 7.5

Crystal System: Isometric

Color: Green-Transparent

Green gemstones have been long believed to be of help to one's physical and mental health. One of the earliest references in Greek writings as to the therapeutic value of green gemstones appears in the works of Theophrastus, who wrote in the third century before Christ.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org