Ruby in Zoisite History, Lore, Facts, Myths and Pictures

An ornamental material consisting of crystalline aggregates of green zoisite with non transparent ruby inclusions it is found in Tanzania and the general appearance is unmistakable.  

There isn't another stone like it in the mineral world.  The green zoisite is relatively soft, between 5.5 - 6.5 on the Mohs' scale while ruby inclusions are usually quite hard, 9 on the Mohs' scale.  This can make the stone difficult to cut because of the differences in hardness and usually diamond tools will be used.

Zoisite has been known for nearly two centuries as an ornamental stone. The brilliant green variety is associated with medium grade rubies and is quite popular as an ornamental stone. The red rubies are often distorted and irregularly spread throughout the sea of massive green zoisite. It is one of the most colorful of ornamental stones.

Folklore:

Unknown.