Handcrafted copper ring with natural ruby zoisite, size 11 ES. Anyolite combines red corundum crystals (ruby) embedded in a green zoisite matrix, with black hornblende inclusions characteristic of the Tanzanian Longido deposit.
Item Details
| Mineral |
Ruby zoisite — anyolite (ruby Al₂O₃ + zoisite Ca₂Al₃Si₃O₁₂(OH)) |
| Size |
Size 11 ES — inner circumference ~51 mm |
| Metal |
Handcrafted copper |
| Finish |
Bright copper |
| Mineral Hardness |
Ruby 9 Mohs / Zoisite ~6.5 Mohs (mixed hardness due to composite rock) |
| Stone Shape |
Raw crystal, freeform |
| Mineral Origin |
Tanzania — Longido deposit / Material acquired from wholesale market |
| Treatment |
No detectable treatment |
| Item Type |
Unique piece |
About This Piece
Ruby zoisite — commercially known as anyolite, from the Swahili anyoli (green) — is a rock that combines two minerals with very different properties: ruby, one of the hardest and most valuable gemstones in the world at 9 Mohs, and zoisite, a green calcium aluminum silicate at 6.5 Mohs. The red-green chromatic contrast against a black hornblende background is the visual feature that makes it immediately recognizable.
In this ring, the anyolite fragment displays the typical pattern of material from Longido, Tanzania: irregular red patches of corundum distributed within the green zoisite mass. Each fragment is unique in its distribution and proportion of colors.
Ruby Zoisite in Lapidary Tradition
Ruby zoisite was first mineralogically described in Tanzania in the 1950s. Unlike faceted individual gem rubies, anyolite is worked as an ornamental stone in cabochons and freeform carvings — the combination of minerals makes classic faceting unfeasible. In contemporary lapidary tradition, it is valued as a stone of extreme visual contrast and unique origin. It is associated with energy and transformation.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ruby zoisite and pure ruby?
Pure ruby is corundum alone, valued for its color and transparency. Ruby zoisite (anyolite) is a rock formed by ruby crystals within a green zoisite matrix — it is a mineralogical specimen, not a gemstone for faceting. Its value lies in the chromatic contrast and the geological rarity of the combination.
What circumference does size 11 ES correspond to?
Size 11 ES is equivalent to an inner circumference of ~51 mm (diameter ~16 mm). Please consult our size chart.
Can copper stain skin?
Copper can leave a slight green mark — a natural chemical reaction. It can be removed with soap and water.
Is this a unique piece?
Yes. The red-green distribution pattern of each anyolite crystal is unique. The image shows the exact piece you will receive.
How should it be cared for?
Avoid contact with water and chemicals. See jewelry care guide.
