In the captivating world of green gemstones, Tsavorite and emerald hold a great place. Green gems signify growth, renewal, and new beginnings, making them a popular choice for occasions such as weddings and anniversaries. Moreover, they make a great choice as gifts. Both these gems make a great choice whether worn as a special occasion or everyday accessory. But which one exudes more charm? Let’s explore the characteristics of tsavorite vs. emerald and find out which is the most suitable green gem.
History and Origins
Tsavorite stone was first discovered in 1967 by the British geologist Campbell R. Bridges. It was named so after the Tsavo National Park area in Kenya. The metamorphic rocks found in this area are suitable for the formation of this stone. The mines in the East African Rift system are small, which impacts the value of the stone. So, large-sized gemstones are difficult to find. Today, these gems are found in Kenya and Tanzania.
Emeralds were first discovered in Egypt during 330 B.C. These gems are considered the oldest ones, around 2.97 billion years old. Historically, they were referred to as Cleopatra gems as the queen of Egypt loved them. She used to adorn her palace with these green stones and her outfits and jewelry also showcased these beautiful gems. Egypt mines were the only mines that operated in the early century, and hence their availability was limited. Today, these gems are found in most parts of the world, like Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, Afghanistan, the U.S., and more.
Physical and Chemical Properties
The Tsavorite stone is a green variety of the Grossular garnet family. It is a calcium aluminum silicate with a chemical composition of Ca3Al2Si3O12. Tsavorite hardness ranges from 7-7.5 and has a specific gravity of 3.69-3.68, which is higher than emeralds, meaning the former is more scratch-resistant and durable. The higher refractive index of this gem, as compared to other green gems, allows it to achieve higher shine and brilliance.
Green emerald stone is a member of the beryl mineral family with a chemical formula Be3Al2(SiO3)6. When analyzing emerald vs. tsavorite, the former has a hexagonal crystalline structure, whereas the latter has an isometric structure. In comparison to the garnet family, these gems are brittle in nature; however, their hardness is 7-7.5. So, you can wear both of these stones every day.
Color and Aesthetics
Tsavorite garnet displays an intense green color. Secondary overtones like yellow and blue are common. Top-quality gems are those with medium tone and high saturation levels. According to GIA grades, the color range varies from too light to too dark. On the contrary, the gemstones from the beryl family also show a vivid green hue with secondary overtones like yellow and blue. The green hue of these gems is due to the presence of trace elements like chromium and vanadium. Since the colors of these stones are similar, it is difficult to differentiate between the two.
The major difference between the two is that garnets show strong fluorescence. They glow in red-orange. The beryl gemstones show weak fluorescence and are visible in some specimens, such as those obtained from Chivor mines in Colombia. Both emerald and tsavorite rough stone feature type 2 inclusions, which means they are usually included.
Benefits
Both these green gemstones from different mineral families benefit the wearer immensely. They are associated with the heart chakra. Activating this chakra helps individuals to balance emotions and get relief from heartaches, depression, anxiety, and stress. The calming energy of these stones is due to their mesmerizing green color, which is relaxing and soothing. Besides spiritual benefits, these gems have powers of great intuition, attract wealth, and bring luck to the wearer.
Symbolism and Uses in Jewelry: Tsavorite vs. Emerald
Tsavorite stone meaning relates to prosperity, vitality and protection. The green color of the stone symbolizes growth and renewal. Since the refractive index of these grossular varieties is high it makes a desirable piece of jewelry. It can be worn as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or rings. The beautiful color of the gem complements any metal color, such as gold or platinum.
A tsavorite ring for special occasions such as engagements and anniversaries is a perfect adornment one can have. Garnet is the birthstone of January month and one can wear it as jewelry for the same every day. This January birthstone benefits the individual with high confidence, leadership skills, and feelings of positivity and happiness all day.
Emerald stone meaning is associated with rebirth, love, and fertility. These green gems are worn to bring balance and harmony to a relationship. They also make a perfect anniversary and wedding gemstone ring. A three-stone emerald cut engagement ring displaying this green gem in the center, along with diamonds on either side, is a classic choice. Three stone rings symbolize the past, present, and future of a relationship, and these stones are the perfect choice for this design. Moreover, emeralds are the birthstone for May month in comparison to garnets.
Market Value and Rarity
When comparing tsavorite vs. emerald, the former from the grossular garnet family is very rare and is found in only limited places. But due to its less popularity they are comparatively affordable. However, finding 5-carat and above stones is difficult and accounts for high prices. These beryl stones sourced from Colombia are considered rare. With an intense green color and high clarity, these stones command higher prices. Finding Colombian stones above 3-carat in weight is rare and thus increases the rarity of natural emerald stones of good origin.
In conclusion both these green gems have a stunning appearance and have their unique attributes. Thus, choosing one of them is difficult. However, analysing Tsavorite vs. Emerald you can find out which suits your preferences and budget.