Ruby Zoisite is the natural combination of both ruby and zoisite crystals in a single specimen. Ruby-zoisite was discovered at the Longido mining district in northeast Tanzania. To this day, Tanzania remains the only source for ruby-zoisite. Blevins had initially thought that he had found vast ruby deposits in 1949, but it later turned out to be a green zoisite matrix with large inclusions of mostly opaque ruby. Ruby-zoisite is also heavily included with black hornblende minerals. Depending on its primary constituents, ruby-in-zoisite can vary tremendously in color, pattern and hardness. Zoisite provides an earthy green color, while ruby inclusions give it pink and red highlights. Zoisite's hardness ranges from 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, whereas ruby has a hardness of 9. Although ruby-zoisite is not fine ruby, it eventually found a purpose in carvings and cabochons. Today, it is one of the most colorful ornamental gemstones available, and the abundance of gemstone material makes it very affordable even in larger sizes.
 
Flat polished beveled back
Measures 27.10x38.10mm
Thickness 5.25mm