Anyolite

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An unpolished sample of anyolite, also known as "ruby in zoisite".
An unpolished sample of anyolite, also known as "ruby in zoisite".

Anyolite is considered a variety of the mineral zoisite. Found in Kenya and Tanzania, anyolite is actually a metamorphic rock composed of intergrown green zoisite, black hornblende, and ruby. It is said to be named after the Maasai word anyoli, meaning "green." Anyolite is also referred to as ruby in zoisite or Tanganyika artstone.

The strikingly contrasted colours make anyolite a popular material for sculptures and other decorative objects. It was first discovered near Longido, Tanzania in 1954.

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