Anyolite

Rock

By Tim Matthews, JD, FGA, GG, DGA,
CEO and President of JTV (retired)
Published: June 2014
Modified: February 2022
Anyolite Polished Anyolite Rough Anyolite Jewelry

“Anyolite” comes from the from the Masai word anyoli, meaning "green." It is also known as ruby in zoisite. It is a translucent to opaque rock composed of ruby crystals, green zoisite and black or very dark green pargasite. It is used for cabochons and decorative objects. It was first discovered in 1954 at the Mundarara Mine, near Longido, Tanzania. It has also been found in the Muriatata Hills, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania.

General Information

Common Name
Anyolite
Species
Rock
Transparency
Opaque-Translucent
Dispersion
Strength: None
Refractive Index
1.700-1.770
Optic Sign
NA
Polariscope Reaction
Aggregate (AGG)
Fluorescence
SWUV: Inert
LWUV: Inert
Pleochroism
None
Inclusions
Ruby areas might show hexagonal outline.
Luster
Pearly, Vitreous
Fracture
Uneven
Cleavage
None
Chemical Name
aluminum oxide and calcium aluminum silicate hydroxide
Chemical Formula
Al2O3 and Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH)
Crystal System
NA
Chemistry Classification
Rock

Anyolite Colors

  • Bi-color Anyolite
    Bi-color
  • Green Anyolite
    Green
  • Red Anyolite
    Red

Alternate Names

Ruby in Zoisite

Countries of Origin

Tanzania, United Republic Of; Unknown

Care

Normal Care, avoid ultrasonic and harsh cleaners if oiled.