How to Identify Tsavorite Garnets

Examine the color of the stone. Gemologists describe the color of tsavorite as grass-green or bluish-green. The intensity of the color ranges from translucent to opaque, with mid-range colors being the most coveted. While under natural light the color is extremely similar to that of an emerald, under incandescent lighting, the stone may have a yellowish cast. Unlike emeralds, tsavorite possess a higher quality of fire or sparkle.

Inspect the stone using a 10x magnification jeweler's loop. Tsavorite has the unique distinction of being clear or nearly clear of all inclusions. Emeralds, on the other hand, possess inclusions and are often somewhat cloudy in appearance.

Ask if the stone has undergone any enhancements. Jewelers must tell you if the stone has been heat-treated, irradiated, dyed or has undergone any other form of alteration. Tsavorite is one of the few stones that does not undergo commercial enhancement to improve color or clarity. If the stone you are considering has been enhanced, it is not tsavorite.

Beware of jewelers using phrases like "antique" or "vintage." Tsavorite was not discovered until 1967 and did not gain popularity with jewelers until 1974. Green stone jewelry dated prior to 1967 is not tsavorite.

Ask to see a certificate of authenticity. Most loose gems and many completed jewelry pieces come with certificates of authenticity. The largest majority of tsavorite comes from mines in the Tsavo National Park or Tanzania's Lindi Province. Currently, Gemfields holds the rights to tsavorite mining.

Be skeptical of pieces described as vintage Tiffany and Co. jewelry. Yes, Tiffany and Co. did and does produce tsavorite jewelry. In fact, Tiffany was the first major jewelry company to popularize tsavorite. However, don't go by the seller's word alone. All Tiffany and Co. jewelry bears the logo either inside the ring, on the back of the earring, as a fob on a bracelet, or engraved on the back of a pendant. In addition, vintage Tiffany jewelry will be much more expensive and collectible than current Tiffany jewelry.