And today we are talking about pomegranates again. More precisely, about one of the varieties of this group of minerals - uvarovite stone. Among the pomegranate family, it is a little “different”.
Uvarovite is an interesting mineral. Garnets themselves are not large; It’s not for nothing that they received such a name, based on the size of a pomegranate seed (this is one version of the name). And uvarovite crystals for the most part do not exceed 1-3 millimeters in size. Another version is that the name of the grenade was given by the medieval scientist A. Magnus.
Story
Uvarovite is a bright green, emerald-colored mineral, a rare variety of garnet, found in the Urals. In 1832, the stone was described by academician G.I. Hess and received from him the name “uvarovite” in honor of the president of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Count S.S. Uvarov.
Many mineralologists believe that this man did not deserve such an honor, since he was a rather odious person. As Minister of Public Education, he stole government firewood and strengthened control over gymnasiums and universities. There are known caustic epigrams by A. S. Pushkin about Uvarov.
The stone has several other names:
- Ural emerald;
- chromium garnet;
- hanleite (uvarovite, mined in the Hanle deposit, India);
- trautvinite (this name is mainly found in foreign literature).
Interesting facts about uvarovite
There is a widespread opinion among mineralogists that Count Uvarov did not deserve to have this gem named after him. In general, the count’s personality is quite ambiguous: Pushkin wrote caustic epigrams about him, and left a rather unflattering description of Uvarov. The minister was allegedly caught stealing government firewood and increased control measures over universities and gymnasiums. In Russia, uvarovite is often called the “imperial stone”, as it was very loved and appreciated by Empress Catherine the Great.
Physicochemical characteristics
Uvarovite is a calcium-chromium silicate.
- The chemical formula is Ca3Cr2(SiO4)3 .
- Green color.
- The shine is glassy.
- Transparency - transparent, translucent.
- Hardness - 6,5–7.
- Density - 3.4–3.8 g /cm3 .
This stone is endowed with a bright, emerald green color due to its high chromium content. Impurities make the crystals dark.
Some samples contain titanium, which gives them a yellowish appearance, or inclusions that resemble rusty streaks.
Large crystals are rare. Typically, the mineral occurs in the form of fine-grained brushes and aggregates with crystals no larger than 2–3 mm . Hatching is often visible on the edges.
Previously, it was believed that large crystals of uvarovite did not exist in nature. But recently crystals up to 1.5 cm .
Unlike other garnets, this mineral does not melt and is not affected by acids.
Compatibility with other stones
Each stone has its own frequency and energy and cannot always complement the strength of another mineral. In some combinations, the stones do not fit together, which can negatively affect the wearer of such jewelry.
Favorable combination of green pomegranate energy:
- agate,
- alabaster,
- emerald,
- bloodstone,
- sapphire.
Braided bracelet with uvarovite, sapphire, red garnet, topaz, citrine, amethyst
Disharmonious combination:
- aquamarine,
- chrysoprase,
- chrysolite,
- pearl,
- ruby,
- lapis lazuli,
- turquoise.
Earrings with uvarovite and lapis lazuli
An indefinite combination: onyx, malachite, black agate.
Zero or neutral: carnelian, variegated agate.
Place of Birth
The first deposit of uvarovite is located in the Urals. It has not yet dried up; jewelry-quality samples of a wonderful bright green emerald color are mined here. Sometimes large specimens suitable for cutting are found. On the world market, Ural uvarovites are valued higher than others. In Russia, deposits have also been discovered in the Irkutsk region and Yakutia.
The Scottish deposit Glen Skeag is famous for its high quality uvarovites. Such dark green, almost gray stones are called skiagites (after the place of extraction).
Brown-green uvarovite is mined in the Indian Hanle deposit.
Small deposits have been discovered in:
- Finland;
- Norway;
- USA;
- Canada;
- SOUTH AFRICA;
- Italy;
- Turkey;
- Poland.
Where is uvarovite used?
For industry, uvarovite has no value, but in jewelry it is in great demand. Skilled craftsmen make all kinds of decorations and interior items from it.
The first products appeared in Tsarist Russia. They were made to order for Catherine II. Since the main deposit was located in this country, she could afford the luxury of green gems without damaging the state treasury.
Earrings, necklaces and rings with uvarovite were highly appreciated by foreign guests. They nicknamed the gem Catherine, or Ural emerald, because of the similarity of these two minerals in color.
Green crystals are used to make beautiful cabochons. The stone is not cut, but only its irregularities are smoothed out to obtain a round shape. Thus, smooth spheres with a shiny surface are obtained. Uvarovite cabochons are valued no less than opals, and sometimes even diamonds.
Uvarovite is also used in interior decoration. It looks impressive on walls and kitchen countertops. In addition, boxes, lamp stands and other decorative elements are made from it. The presence of a Ural emerald in the house speaks of the wealth and good taste of its owner.
Application
Uvarovite is highly valued by gem collectors, as it is very beautiful and relatively rare.
Jewelers make wonderful brooches from this stone. It is also suitable for inserts in the form of brushes into earrings, rings, and bracelets.
The crystals do not require additional processing, since they usually have the shape of rhombic dodecahedrons. Each of the mineral brushes is unique. They look very beautiful framed in any metal, but more often the frame is gold.
Sometimes large crystals of uvarovite are extracted from the aggregates and cut into emerald cut. But, since their weight is no more than 1 carat , they do not serve as an independent insert for jewelry. Typically, such pieces are complemented by emeralds or diamonds.
Uvarovite goes well with other green garnets, beryl, and malachite.
Jewelry with mineral
The jewelry industry is the only area of application for uvarovite. This stone is loved by craftsmen, so incredibly beautiful jewelry is created with its participation. The exclusivity of the gem lies in the fact that it is used for products as it is extracted from the bowels of the earth. This is due to the fact that uvarovite crystals are very small and it is almost impossible to cut them. Often, nature itself took care of the cutting.
Thus, the gem is inserted into jewelry in whole aggregates, which are brushes of crystals. In addition, each of such jewelry is exclusive, because repeating the frame is a simple matter, but it is impossible to insert an identical uvarovite unit into this frame. There are no identical garnet brushes found in nature.
The value of uvarovite jewelry varies. Silver is affordable, but good gold work from a good craftsman is many times more expensive.
- A silver pendant with dark green uvarovite is estimated at approximately 14-18 thousand rubles, a gold one can reach 100-110 thousand.
- Earrings. Silver - from 14 thousand, gold - up to 150-170 thousand.
- Rings. From 16,000 for silver items.
In addition to jewelers, uvarovite is no less valued by collectors. The rarest specimens of the stone flaunt in private collections.
Medicinal properties
When improving your health with the help of minerals, you cannot refuse treatment prescribed by your doctor.
Uvarovite, according to lithotherapists, improves blood composition and enhances blood circulation, so it can be used in the treatment of anemia. In this case, it is better to wear a uvarovite bracelet.
Uvarovite should not be worn daily, as it can harm the kidneys and gallbladder. For people suffering from diseases of these organs, wearing the gem is contraindicated.
The healing properties of uvarovite help improve the functioning of many organs and systems of the body. The impact of the mineral contributes to:
- normalization of high blood pressure;
- strengthening metabolic processes;
- relief from headaches, migraines (a pendant or pendant is suitable for this);
- improving the condition of the nervous system. Uvarovite is of particular importance for irritable people. Under the influence of the stone, its owner becomes calmer, depression, fatigue, and mood swings disappear. The effects of stress disappear and sleep normalizes.
Minerologists warn that uvarovite bought anywhere should not be used for medicinal purposes, as it is similar to the rare poisonous green mineral conicalcite, which contains arsenic.
Jewelry
Jewelers use uvarovite to make both men's and women's jewelry of extraordinary beauty. It can be easily inlaid into any products:
- necklaces;
- pendants;
- pendants;
- bracelets;
- rings.
The mineral can be used as a main stone or combined with other gems.
Uvarovite earrings
An interesting fact is that uvarovite is often inserted into jewelry exactly in the form in which it was extracted from the ground. This is due to the fact that the crystals of the stone are quite small and it is difficult to cut them. But this feature gives the gem a special “zest”. Each of the resulting jewelry is exclusive, with a unique shape.
Products containing uvarovite are valued differently. It all depends on the size of the stone and the chosen frame. For example, a silver pendant is estimated at about 15-18 thousand rubles, the same product, but made of gold, will cost about 100 thousand rubles. Earrings made of silver will cost 14 thousand rubles, and in a gold frame - from 150 thousand rubles. Rings, bracelets and other jewelry are valued within the same range.
In addition to being sold at exhibitions and specialized stores, uvarovite can be found in private collections of natural stone lovers.
Magic properties
Uvarovite, according to esotericists, helps develop intuition and recognize lies (for this the stone must be worn in a ring on the finger of the left hand).
A talisman in the form of a uvarovite necklace or pendant helps to make the right decisions and attract the people he needs to the owner.
The magic of uvarovite helps only a person with pure thoughts. Otherwise, evil wishes for other people will return to the owner of the stone.
The magical properties of uvarovite are especially strong in the areas of family and finance.
Love and family
This gem can bring happiness in love:
- In the Urals, such a pebble was sewn into the pillow of newlyweds so that it would protect them from infidelity.
- In Europe, men give a ring with this gem to girls, hoping for their love.
- Uvarovite is a wonderful amulet for the family. Placed in a silver frame, it will protect the family hearth from damage, the evil eye, and disasters (fire, theft, etc.). The amulet should be worn under clothing, and it is better if it touches the skin. The gem brings love, peace, and prosperity to the home.
Finance
This mineral helps improve the financial condition of the owner. Previously, the stone was a talisman for merchants; they wore huge rings with uvarovite brushes.
The gem can help with:
- increasing income levels;
- getting rid of debts;
- searching for a new source of income;
- promotion up the career ladder;
- proper use of the funds received.
The stone does not help in generating income from gambling and lotteries. He is favorable only to people who earn money by their own labor and in an honest way.
The magic of Ural greenery
The Ural emerald, according to esotericists, is very strong in two areas - family and finance. In these areas of a person’s life, a nugget reveals his abilities to the fullest.
Finance
Uvarovite attracts money to the owner. In a short period of time, a person will be able to get rich, but the stone has one condition - the mineral helps only those who earn their living by their labor. This means that for lovers of passive income, such as gambling, for example, the Ural gem is not a helper.
A nugget helps you climb the career ladder or helps you find a job with decent pay. In addition, uvarovite protects against wastefulness, thanks to which the owner of the mineral learns to spend money wisely.
Love and family
Here uvarovite works as a family talisman, as well as a magical attribute for love rituals. It is believed that the Ural mineral helps a person meet his true love and start a strong family. In an existing marriage, the gem revives faded feelings, protects spouses from conflicts, betrayals and separations.
In the magical world, uvarovite is used by sorcerers to prepare love drinks and to perform rituals to attract a betrothed. There is also a simple ritual where the wife sews a uvarovite crystal into the corner of her husband’s pillow. Thus, a man will always desire only his wife and his attraction to her will not fade over the years.
Also read: Diorite - features of volcanic rock
Europeans also have their own tradition associated with emerald stone - the groom gives his bride a ring with uvarovite for engagement. They say that such a gift creates strong feelings in a girl’s heart that will not disappear for many years.
In addition, uvarovite protects the house in which the owner of the stone lives from all sorts of misfortunes - robbers, elements, fires. By keeping the mineral at home, you can save the man living there from alcohol addiction.
If you wear a ring or a ring with a mineral on your left hand, intuitive thinking will reach a new level and the owner of the jewelry will learn to expose deception. A pendant with a stone will help a person find answers to complex life questions and make the right decisions.
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
Among astrologers, Uvarovite is known as the patron saint of people born under the sign of Leo . The gem assists them in implementing their plans and promotes success in business. And, besides, it pacifies pride and pride a little.
Uvarovite is also suitable for two other fire signs of the zodiac, Aries and Sagittarius This pomegranate will sharpen their intuition and help them recognize lies.
In terms of energy, the stone is also suitable for Virgo and Capricorn , giving them self-confidence and tranquility. In addition, it will help Capricorn
Uvarovite can be used as a talisman for Aquarius , Gemini and Libra . He will help in understanding their true purpose and in the successful implementation of their plans.
For two signs of the element of Water, Cancer and Scorpio , this mineral is useless as an amulet and talisman, but wearing beautiful uvarovite jewelry is not contraindicated for them.
Astrologers do not advise Pisces . For their representatives, it will enhance the excessive impressionability inherent in this zodiac sign. The person will become more touchy, irritable, and prone to depression.
Taurus has poor compatibility with any garnets, since the dynamic energy of these stones does not suit him.
For water signs ( Cancer , Scorpio and Pisces ), the following stones can be recommended as a talisman and amulet: belomorite, labradorite, ammolite, moonstone (adularia).
In addition, Cancer is suitable for:
- blue agate;
- euclase;
- aragonite;
- tektite;
- pearl;
- aventurine;
- alexandrite;
- emerald;
- cat's eye (cymophane).
For Scorpio, lucky stones will be:
- topaz;
- aquamarine;
- opal;
- sarder;
- red pomegranate;
- alexandrite;
- carnelian
Pisces are well helped by:
- rose quartz;
- opal;
- amethyst;
- jasper;
- aragonite;
- euclase;
- blue agate
Taurus can be advised as an amulet or talisman:
- rose quartz;
- agate;
- Labrador;
- spinel;
- cornelian;
- malachite.
How to care
In order for a stone or jewelry with it to retain its beauty, you must adhere to the following rules:
- store in a dark place at room temperature and average humidity;
- protect from exposure to direct sunlight (from which the magical properties of uvarovite may weaken);
- protect from falls, impacts;
- Remove dirt using a very soft brush and soap solution. Then rinse with running water and air dry or wipe with a soft cloth.
If uvarovite is used for medicinal purposes or as a talisman or amulet, it is better to store it separately from other stones so that the magic of the gem is fully revealed.
To cleanse uvarovite from accumulated negative energy, once a month you need to wash the stone in running water without using detergents. Then wipe with a soft cloth.
Talismans and amulets
Pendant with uvarovite
Uvarovite is a talisman of love, health, success and financial well-being. He charges people with ambitious and sincere thoughts with positive energy for good luck and good deeds.
A talisman made of uvarovite will protect you from troubles and dashing people. It will protect you from envy, aggression and anger coming from ill-wishers, and will help you make the right decisions. A stone stored in the house will protect against accidents, fires, elements and robberies.
A magical item can be either a simple pebble or an elite piece of jewelry. When choosing, it is important to consider not the appearance of the mineral, but its positive vibrations and your own feelings. In order for the uvarovite to “hear” its owner and begin to help him, you should regularly talk to him, share your thoughts and dreams.
A ring or ring with uvarovite should be worn on the left hand to develop intuition and learn to distinguish deception.
In difficult times, a pendant or pendant with a mineral will help you get out of an unpleasant situation with minimal losses.
How to distinguish from a fake
Only a professional gemologist can accurately determine whether a stone is natural or not. But the buyer himself can recall the signs of natural uvarovite:
- Size. Brushes of Ural uvarovites consist of crystals no larger than 3 mm . Faceted crystals are rarely larger than 1 carat .
- Coloring. The color of real stone is uneven. Uniform color, perfect purity and transparency are signs of a fake.
- Presence of inclusions. Specimens without admixtures of other minerals are very rare and expensive.
- Surface reflectivity. Even after cutting, the stone retains its matte shine.
- Light refraction. Due to its crystalline structure, real stone transmits light unevenly.
- Heating rate. The stone remains cool in your hands, but the plastic and glass heat up quickly.
- Hardness. Natural stone can easily scratch glass.
Price
Uvarovite brushes cost from 700 to tens of thousands of rubles .
The cost of jewelry with this mineral depends on:
- size;
- crystal shapes;
- their cleanliness from foreign inclusions.
The average price of jewelry with uvarovite is from 1,500 per piece .
In Russian online stores you can buy uvarovite and jewelry with it at approximately the following prices:
- ring with a square insert, nickel silver frame, 22x23 mm - RUB 1,274. ;
- silver plated pendant - 2920 rub. ;
- mineral, 1–1.5 cm — 280 rub. ;
- uvarovite brush, 40x21x5 mm - 950 rub.
Let's buy it or take it for free
Let's reveal a secret. If you don’t want to buy jewelry with uvarovite, go to the Urals, to the Perm region. Relax and look at the beautiful nature. And near the village of Sarany, admire the chromite mine. Yes, when you walk along the roads there, watch your step. Be sure to find a stone with a uvarovite brush.
Saranovsky chromite mine
They say that local residents also sell stone - they also watch their step, and it’s also easy for miners to find stones “without leaving their workplace.” There is no damage to the state - all this goes into the dumps used to pave the roads. But Russia could make a profit from the sale of uvarovite, from such and such beauty...
