Merelani Hills
The Merelani Hills of Tanzania are the world's only significant source of tanzanite — the blue-violet gem variety of zoisite — and of fine green tsavorite garnet.
About Merelani Hillsextended article
What it is known for
Merelani's graphitic gneisses host gem tanzanite (blue zoisite), tsavorite (green grossular garnet), and well-formed crystals of both, often on matrix.
What collectors look for
Gem tanzanite crystals and tsavorite — especially well-terminated, richly coloured examples on matrix — are the most sought-after.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Merelani Hills?
Merelani Hills is a mineral locality in Manyara, Tanzania.
What minerals are found at Merelani Hills?
Minerals from Merelani Hills include Tanzanite, Tsavorite, Graphite.
What is Merelani Hills known for?
The Merelani Hills of Tanzania are the world's only significant source of tanzanite — the blue-violet gem variety of zoisite — and of fine green tsavorite garnet.
References & databases
Mindat.org is the world’s largest open mineralogy database.