In today’s rock review, we shine the spotlight on one of the rarer members of the Garnet family, the sparkling Uvarovite. Uvarovite has been known to the world since 1832 when it was discovered by Germain Henry Hess, a doctor and chemist who also pursued an interest in geology in his spare time. He chose to name it after Count Sergei Semenovitch Uvarov, a Russian statesman who also had a love for minerals and rocks.
The presence of Chromium accounts for it’s consistent Kelly green color which makes it very sought after by gem lovers who are looking for a true green with little variance. Occurring mainly in clusters of fine sized crystals, you’ll most often see this gem as druzy rather than a cut gemstone. It’s luster is Vitreous, meaning that the stone bears a clear and glassy appearance.
It is a 6.5-7 on Moh’s Scale of Hardness and therefore is durable; however, it is important to remember that as a druzy, special care is needed in its cleaning and maintenance so that the crystal deposits remain undamaged. Be sure to use only mild cleaners and avoid bringing chemicals in contact with the gems. You’ll get the most out wear out of Uvarovite, or any druzy for that matter, as a pendant, brooch, pair of earrings and other pieces that are less likely to incur abrasion.
This stone is mainly found in Spain, Russia and Canada, but also has made an appearance in a few other countries, such as Finland, Norway, South Africa and even in California. With luck, this stone will continue to be found in our jewelry boxes and on our persons as well for many more years to come!
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