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Merelani mint garnet is a light green grossularite garnet, specifically a variety of green garnet known for its mint-like hue and origin in the Merelani region of Tanzania. It's often referred to as a "mint green" or "Kiwi garnet" due to its distinctive color, which can range from yellowish-green to bluish-green. The color is primarily attributed to the presence of vanadium.

Key characteristics:

Color: Light to medium-light green, often with a yellowish or bluish undertone.

Hardness: 7.25 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale.

Origin: Primarily found in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, but also in Kenya.

Color shift: May exhibit a subtle color shift depending on the lighting conditions.

Fluorescence: Under ultraviolet (UV) light, Merelani mint garnet can emit a noticeable orange fluorescence.

Inclusions: May contain tiny crystals or bubble inclusions (often referred to as "sugar" in the gem trade).

Brilliance: Grossular garnet's high refractive index contributes to its brilliance.

Merelani mint garnets are a part of the grossular garnet family and are closely related to tsavorite, which is a deeper green. They are appreciated for their vibrant color and ability to show flashes of dispersion, making them a beautiful and relatively affordable alternative to tsavorites