ZOISITE

zois1.jpg - 43844 Bytes
zois2.jpg - 36501 Bytes
zoisite streaked with ruby and hornblende, from Tanzania

Calcium aluminium hydroxysilicate

Zoisite occurs in a number of varieties, the most sought-after being tanzanite, a variety coloured sapphire-blue by the presence of vanadium.


tanzanite

A massive green variety of zoisite (top), containing rubies and occasionally dark hornblende inclusions, may be polished, carved, or tumbled to make ornaments or an attractive decorative stone. Discovered by Baron von Zois in the Sau-Alp mountains of Austria, zoisite was first called saualpite.

Hardness: 6 1/2

rubyhrse.gif - 41325 Bytes
Look what I found! Isn't this lovely! It'll cost you a mere $2,450 from a company called Fire and Ice.

Zoisite is useful for transforming negative energies to positive energies, amplifying them in the process. It can be used to stimulate activity and advancement, overcoming laziness and idleness. In healing, Zoisite may be used in the treatment of heart, lung, spleen and pancreas.

Tanzanite is a stone of magic, facilitating spiritual awareness and stimulating insight