Geology/History
Ruby Zoisite or Anyolite is classified as a metamorphic rock, it is however highly prized as a gemstone & ornamental or decorative stone due to its uniquely vibrant colouring. First discovered at the Mundarara Mine, near Longido, Tanzania in 1954. The term Anyolite is said to be from the Maasai word anyoli, meaning "green", it is also referred to as Tanganyika artstone. This beautiful vibrantly coloured combination is composed of crimson red Ruby, green Zoisite & black/dark green Pargasite – tschermakite. The Zoisite is chromium-rich, this gives it the vibrant green to emerald-green hues. Both the red of the Ruby & green of the Zoisite are due to traces of chromium. Ruby in Zoisite is sometimes confused with “Ruby in Fuchsite” since both gemstones are green & interspersed with Ruby. Ruby is the red variety of corundum that is considered one of the most valuable gemstones available today. Corundum (which includes both sapphire & ruby) has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale making it the second hardest natural substance on earth. Fine precious ruby is most desirable in its transparent form. The ruby included in Zoisite is typically opaque.
Metaphysical Properties
A stone of unity. Motivates & activates creative drive, excellent for pursuing creative expression with artistic projects. Combats writers block & promotes lateral thinking. It stimulates the mind so that it becomes sharp with awareness & heightened concentration. Encourages positive thoughts & alleviates depression or sadness by raising ones vibration & cleansing the etheric body. Ignites inner passion for life & love. Attracts abundance & joy helping to manifest desires. Balances male & female energies, brings harmony to relationships. Opens heart & root chakra, aligns meridians. Helps connect with nature & feel connected to life. Dissolves the illusion of separation & feelings of loneliness. Activates Reiki & Kundalini healing life force energy. Heals without direction, it goes to the source of pain & releases it by dissolving unnecessary energy layers that are stunting spiritual growth. Excellent for trauma release, particularly physically stored emotions. Removes toxic thought patterns & negative energy. Releases anger, old wounds & past hurts allowing the soul to set free any Karmic bonds or contracts. Overcomes exhaustion & yet calms hyperactivity bringing peaceful balance into the physical realm. An excellent stone for group projects or community work as it promotes unity & togetherness.
Crystal Healing
Depression, circulatory, heart, lung issues, breathing difficulties, allergies. Fungal infections. Balances endocrine system & assists organ function.
Mineralogy
Group: Zoisite, Metamorphic Rock
Composition: Ruby: Al2O3:Cr Group: Corundum.
Zoisite: Ca2Al3(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH) Group: Sorosilicate. Epidote group
Pargasite – tschermakite: NaCa2(Mg4Al)(Si6Al2)O22(OH)2 Group: Inosilicates. Amphibole group
Form/Habit: Massive
Hardness: 6-9
Specific Gravity: 3.20 to 3.50
Transparency: Opaque
R.I: 1.695(+/-)
Colour: Green with ruby inclusions and black spots