Tanzanite Gemstone

Tanzanite: Fast Facts

• Tanzanite ranks from 6.0 to 7.0 on the Mohs hardness scale.
• The best tanzanite displays a transition of color from blue to violet, with flashes of red.
• Tanzanite originates in Tanzania, first found in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Tanzanite universally undergoes heating to improve its color.
• Tanzanite is the blue-to-violet variety of the zoisite mineral structure. Sometimes, it’s known in green or pink varieties, but these specimens are very rare.

What color is tanzanite?

Tanzanite is the bluish-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. The gem exhibits pleochroism, meaning that the color of the gemstone shifts as you change its position. This creates a huge challenge for gem cutters, as a compromise always exists between getting the best color out of the gem while keeping it a desirable size.

How valuable is tanzanite?

Like other colored stones, the value of tanzanite hinges on four crucial factors: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The following guidelines will help in choosing tanzanite stones for your collection.

Tanzanite Varieties

While most of us are familiar with the traditional blue-violet variety of tanzanite, there are actually several zoisite gems that are also considered tanzanite:

• Bondi Blue Tanzanite: Named after the sea-blue color seen on the beautiful Bondi Beach in Australia, Bondi Blue Tanzanite displays deep blues tinged with rich greens.
• Natural Green Tanzanite: Similar in color to green tourmaline, Natural Green Tanzanite has a green base color with red-violet and blue undertones.
• Peacock Tanzanite: Peacock Tanzanite represents features transition between cheerful green and bright blue hues, mimicking the shimmer of the male Indian peafowl.

Treating tanzanite

Gemstone treatments are frequently used to enhance the appearance or durability of a gemstone. Some are so common that it’s often assumed that treatment is always performed.

Tanzanite is no exception; these gems are routinely heated to accentuate their coveted blues and violets, a process integral to their allure. Heat treatment is standard for tanzanite and doesn't affect its value, contrary to what one might assume.

Tales of discovery often speak of blue tanzanite crystals found by prospectors or tribesmen. It's believed these stones underwent natural heat treatment, either from natural radiation beneath the earth or from events like wildfires, long before being unearthed.

Untreated tanzanite typically showcases a brownish-green or solely green hue. On rare occasions, pink varieties emerge, adding to the gemstone's intriguing palette.

Tanzanite Care

Tanzanite is rated 6.0 to 7.0 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning that it is relatively durable. However, it can cleave if struck. For an active person wearing tanzanite daily, a pendant or earrings may be a better choice than a ring.

Proper care ensures that your tanzanite crystal remains as captivating as the day you received it. Here are more essential tips you should consider:

• Tanzanite Hardness: How Durable Is This Exquisite Gemstone?
• Does Tanzanite Have Cleavage or Fracture? Demystifying Tanzanite's Durability

Where Does Tanzanite Come From?

Tanzanite's journey begins in Tanzania, named to avoid the less appealing moniker “blue zoisite,” which bore an unfortunate resemblance to “blue suicide.” This decision paved the way for its recognition as tanzanite in honor of the country in which it was discovered.

While specific discovery tales are varied, tanzanite was unearthed in the 1960s. Many narratives acknowledge the Maasai of the Merelani Foothills, near Mt. Kilimanjaro, as early witnesses to the gem's allure.

The Tanzanian government recognizes Jumanne Ngoma as the man who discovered tanzanite. In the mid-1980s, Ngoma would receive two certificates legitimizing his discovery of the gem. In April 2018, the Tanzanian government bestowed a large reward to Ngoma to help care for him in his retirement. The Tanzanian government considers Jumanne Nogma to be a national treasure for his discovery of the stone.

However, another story credits Manuel de Souza who discovered the stone by accident. De Souza was attempting to prospect further inland for gems, but poor road conditions meant his driver wouldn’t take him the full distance he intended to travel. Instead, de Souza began to explore around the village of Mtakuja, where the driver had left him and his crew. Souza was said to have found the first tanzanite crystals there. This story has gained strong support and momentum because of the mountains of evidence supporting it. Not only was de Souza’s discovery covered in major periodicals of the time, but many prominent figures within the gem trade have backed his claims in countless anecdotes, articles, and reports.

How Is Tanzanite Mined?

Following tanzanite's discovery, the rush of miners and treasure seekers in the tanzanite mines led the government to organize the area into four blocks, labeled ‘A’ to ‘D,’ a system that remains today. Shop LC sources its tanzanite from Block C, partnering with TanzaniteOne Ltd, the largest producer of tanzanite.

As a top Sight Holder, Shop LC's substantial purchases enable a steady supply at low costs for consumers and the assurance of an ethical supply chain, giving peace of mind to rare gem collectors. The collaboration also supports the Tanzanite Foundation, which aids the Tanzanian community through educational and infrastructural services.

Block C is the largest of the Blocks physically and also produces the highest yield. Mining for tanzanite continues to rely on hand tools and traditional techniques, but Block C also benefits from modern technology, enabling more efficient, safer, and reliable extraction of tanzanite gemstones.

Block C, the largest and most productive, combines traditional mining techniques with modern technology for better efficiency and safety. Mines reach depths of over 2600 feet, with geological surveys suggesting even deeper reserves. However, deeper mining poses safety challenges and may impact future operations.

In 2018, to combat smuggling and ensure proper taxation, the Tanzanian government built a wall around the mining area. This security measure aims to protect the tanzanite supply and ensure the gemstone's longevity.

Properties of Tanzanite

Tanzanite carries a wealth of meaning and significance beyond its aesthetic appeal. Its properties range from metaphysical attributes believed to enhance communication and healing, to its esteemed place as a modern December birthstone.

• Using Tanzanite for Your Health: Exploring the Therapeutic Benefits
• Tanzanite for Every Horoscope: The Cosmic Influence of a Captivating Gemstone

Who Can Wear Tanzanite?

Blue is a surprising color, its shades shaping our perceptions in remarkable ways. Tanzanite sits in a unique space among gems. Originally, sellers were excited by blue tanzanite, as they thought it would give them a good substitute for sapphire. But, over time, the subtle range of violet-blue has become better known, making tanzanite a desirable gem in its own right.

Blue is one of the most popular colors in the U.S. The mysterious blues and enchanting violets of tanzanite create a mystique that easily intrigues us all. Fortunately, tanzanite crystal covers all of these bases and then some!

The exquisite and deeply saturated colors that have propelled this stone to world renown are perfect for classic and formal attire. A certified and appraised AAA tanzanite ring with an expertly set gem is the ultimate expression of luxury.

While tanzanite is rare and unique, its accessibility is part of its charm. You can find premium tanzanite available in affordable options that include settings of precious sterling silver, often enhanced with a platinum or gold finish.

These selections are great for their contemporary appeal and are a versatile addition to any collection. Tanzanite fashion jewelry is great for both office and casual attire. Use it to effortlessly transition from day to night.