Grossular

specimen number:
2354053

location:
Merelani Hills, Simanjiro, Manyara, Tanzania

description:
A glassy partly gemmy green crystal of grossular measuring 1.2 x 1.2 x 0.6 cm in size set perfectly atop matrix with minor graphite. In great condition. This is the variety of the species often called tsavorite.

Situated in the Simanjiro District of the Manyara Region in Tanzania, the Merelani Hills lie within the Mozambique Metamorphic Belt, where intense neoproterozoic tectonic activity and hydrothermal alteration produced graphite-bearing calc-silicate metamorphic rocks. Small-scale prospectors discovered the region's rich gem deposits in the late 1960s, quickly establishing it as a world-class source for rare minerals, most notably tanzanite and fine specimens of tsavorite, an emerald-green variety of grossular garnet. Colored vibrant green by trace amounts of vanadium and chromium, tsavorite crystals from this locality are highly prized by collectors and gemologists for their exceptional clarity and brilliant color.

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