TANZANITE

All About Magnificent Tanzanites 

"With its mesmerizing hues that shift from blue to violet, tanzanite captures the beauty and mystery of the heavens." 

Tiffany & Co.

In the 1960s, a fierce storm struck the Merelani Hills in Tanzania, located near Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. The Maasai nomads inhabiting the area, frightened by the storm, temporarily fled their homes.
Upon their return, they discovered brilliantly shiny blue stones scattered across the ground. Curious about these mysterious gems, they took them to a local explorer. Unable to identify the stones, the explorer sent them to a gemologist in Arusha, northern Tanzania.
 

The gemologist in Arusha, also perplexed, forwarded the stones to his father, a gemologist based in New York. In the United States, the stones underwent analysis at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which revealed an astonishing verdict: the stones were a previously unknown blue variety of zoisite, a mineral traditionally known only in a brownish hue.

Remarkably, when these stones were heated to 600 degrees Celsius, they transformed and retained a unique blue-to-purple coloration.
 

A few years later, H. Pratt, the owner of Tiffany & Co., encountered these Tanzanian zoisites and was captivated by their beauty. He renamed them "tanzanites" to honor their country of origin.

This discovery and subsequent rebranding by Tiffany & Co. propelled tanzanites into the global spotlight, celebrating their rarity and extraordinary beauty.

Tanzanite found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Geologically, tanzanite is up to 1,000 times rarer than diamonds.

Experts estimate that only about 21 tonnes of tanzanite reserves remain, with approximately 30 years of mining left before the source is depleted. Owning tanzanite means possessing one of Earth's rarest treasures, a symbol of unparalleled beauty and exclusivity.
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Tanzanite: A Gemstone of Extraordinary Rarity

Tanzanite is an extraordinary gemstone found in only one place on Earth: the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. This rare gem, with its captivating blue hue tinged with a delicate hint of violet, stands out uniquely in the world of gemstones. Its exclusivity and the likelihood of its supply running out within the current generation elevate tanzanite to a true luxury. Owning tanzanite means possessing a piece of Earth's rarest treasures, a gem that embodies the essence of rarity and unparalleled beauty. Discover the allure of tanzanite, where uniqueness meets the ultimate in gemstone luxury.
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Tanzanite Evaluation

Tanzanite is evaluated based on color, size, cut quality, and clarity, in that order of importance. Color is considered the most crucial factor in determining its value. Most experts attribute 50% to 70% of a Tanzanite's total worth to its color. Bright, intense, and saturated tones are highly prized, with vivid purplish-blue or blueish-violet hues representing the pinnacle of Tanzanite perfection. Stones can vary from too light to too dark, with medium saturation being most desirable.

Some dealers may categorize the finest Tanzanite colors as AAA. However, the most reliable descriptions adhere to the GIA color grading scale. GIA experts have developed a color rating system based on market demand. While not absolute, this rating provides a useful guide for Tanzanite selection.

 

The GIA color rating list ranks Tanzanite colors on a scale of 1-10:

  • vB 6/5 - 10 (Strongly saturated medium-dark purplish-blue)
  • bV 6/5 - 8.1 (Strongly saturated medium-dark bluish-violet)
  • B 6/5 - 8.1 (Strongly saturated medium-dark blue)
  • vB 5/5 - 6.4 (Strongly saturated medium purplish-blue)
  • V 6/4 - 6.4 (Moderately saturated medium-dark violet)
  • vB 7/5 - 6.4 (Strongly saturated dark purplish-blue)

And the list continues... Ultimately, personal preference plays the most crucial role in selecting Tanzanite color. The most beautiful Tanzanite is the one that appeals most to you!
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Price 

As Tanzanite reserves rapidly diminish, it remains uncertain which natural Tanzanite specimen will be the last on Earth. The rarity and uniqueness of these minerals make them exceptionally valuable and sought after for investment.

                 Colour


 

Light colour


 

Light colour


 

Light colour


 

Medium colour


 

Medium colour


 

Medium colour


 

Deep colour


 

Deep colour


 

Deep colour

Weight



1 - 2 ct

 

 



2- 3 ct

 

 



3+ ct

 

 



1 - 2ct

 

 

 

2 - 3 ct

 

 

 

3+ ct

 

 

 

1 - 2 ct

 

 

 

2 - 3 ct

 

 

 

3+ ct

Price $



70 - 150 per 1 ct

 

 



150 - 300 per 1 ct

 

 



200 - 600 per 1 ct

 

 



110 - 350 per 1 ct

 

 


180 - 450 per 1 ct

 

 


200 - 600 per 1 ct

 

 


150 - 500 per 1 ct

 

 


200 - 700 per 1 ct

 

 


400 - 1500 per 1 ct
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Cutting

The cutting of tanzanite has its own unique considerations. Once cut, tanzanite stones can significantly change color when viewed from different angles, often displaying three distinct colors. Cutters aim to enhance the pure blue color as much as possible, even if it means sacrificing a larger portion of the rough stone. Therefore, the cut is doubly important in determining the value of tanzanite.


For tanzanite, the ideal and most valuable stones exhibit a deep, rich blue color with flashes of violet and red in the finest specimens. The blue hue is generally valued higher than stones with a more violet tint. A good, even color without variations or zoning is also highly prized.

The vivid, even blue colors that are highly prized in tanzanite gemstones are typically found in stones of larger carat weight. This depth of color is most appreciated in stones around 5 carats or more, where the deep blue truly comes to life. Smaller stones tend to exhibit a lighter and more delicate color.
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Unheated Tanzanites 

When shopping for tanzanite, be cautious of retailers who offer “unheated” tanzanite at a premium price. All tanzanite must be heated to achieve its distinctive blue color. Only a very small percentage of tanzanite is naturally blue when mined, having undergone natural underground heating. The majority of tanzanite is artificially heated after mining to remove any brownish tones, unveiling the blue color.

 

Unheated tanzanite is exceedingly rare. It's also a common misconception that longer heating times result in a bluer tanzanite. The blue hue is determined by the amount of vanadium present during the stone’s formation. The heating process only serves to eliminate the brownish color, not alter the inherent blue.

Unheated Tanzanites 4.56ct was sold for $6,565

The allure of owning exceptionally rare tanzanite can be tempting, and claims of “unheated” tanzanite may attract buyers. However, before paying a premium for such claims, it's important to know that these assertions cannot be scientifically verified. Currently, there is no method to determine if tanzanite was heated before or after mining.

Additionally, it's crucial to understand the distinction between “heated” tanzanite and “heat-treated” stones. The latter term is used by gemologists to describe sapphires heated for days at near-melting temperatures, altering their chemical structure and significantly affecting their value. Tanzanite, however, is simply heated to reveal its blue color.
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Pleochroism in Tanzanite : Colour change

Pleochroism is the fascinating phenomenon where a gemstone exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite is particularly rare and unique in this regard, as it is a trichroic gemstone. This means that tanzanite can display three distinct colors depending on the orientation of the crystal.

 

In the case of tanzanite, you can see blue when looking in one direction, purple in another, and yellow in yet another direction. This exceptional quality gives tanzanite its vibrant and dynamic appearance, making it one of the most colorful and sought-after gemstones in the world. The variety of colors seen in tanzanite is a direct result of its trichroic nature, contributing to its allure and uniqueness.

 

The pleochroism of tanzanite, which enables it to display different colors from different angles, is influenced by several key factors:

 

Crystallographic Orientation: The colors of tanzanite are most prominent when the gemstone is viewed parallel to the c-axis of the crystal. This orientation highlights the trichroic nature, showcasing blue, purple, and yellow hues distinctly.

 

Purity of the Gemstone: Impurities within the tanzanite can significantly affect its pleochroism. For instance, the presence of iron impurities can introduce a brownish tint to the gemstone, altering its natural color display.

 

Cut of the Gemstone: The way tanzanite is cut plays a crucial role in the visibility of its pleochroism. A faceted tanzanite will better exhibit its pleochroic properties compared to a cabochon-cut tanzanite, which tends to show less color variation due to its smooth, rounded shape.

These factors combined determine the extent and vibrancy of the pleochroism seen in tanzanite, contributing to its unique and captivating appearance.
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Mystical Powers of Tanzanite

Gift of Clairvoyance: Tanzanite is prized for enhancing intuition. For individuals with natural clairvoyant abilities, this stone can significantly amplify their skills, aiding in future predictions. For the average person, tanzanite helps avoid misfortune and choose the right path by heightening intuitive senses.

 

Harmony and Peace: Tanzanite fosters a serene and conflict-free environment. It surrounds its owner with warmth and tranquility, promoting peaceful resolutions to misunderstandings. This stone also reduces gossip and intrigue among colleagues and strengthens friendships.

 

Symbol of Love: Tanzanite is a powerful ally in romantic matters. It can attract a lover’s attention or ignite passion, making it an ideal stone for those facing relationship challenges.

 

Financial Prosperity: Tanzanite brings success and financial stability to its owner. However, it rewards hard work and diligence rather than laziness. Those who strive and put in effort are likely to see generous rewards.

 

Guidance in Decisions: Tanzanite is an excellent guide for making important decisions, especially for those uncertain about their career path or life choices. It helps in navigating life's crossroads with confidence and clarity.
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Astrological Benefits of Tanzanite Gemstone

Astrologers have not reached a consensus on which zodiac signs benefit most from tanzanite. Some believe that the gemstone is a patron of the Fire signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. These fiery and energetic signs often need the calm that a tanzanite amulet can provide. The gemstone can share its wisdom with them, teaching them to make better decisions.

 

Others argue that tanzanite favors the Air signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. For these creative and multifaceted signs, tanzanite acts differently, aiding them in making decisions. Air signs often struggle to find their path, hindering their success. For them, a tanzanite amulet becomes a life navigator, guiding them more quickly and easily to their desired outcomes.

 

Tanzanite also holds significant meaning for the Water signs: Pisces, Cancer, and Scorpio. These signs are deeply affected by conflicts around them. Tanzanite offers them complete tranquility and relief from emotional turmoil, leading to positive changes in their lives.


Earth signs — Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn — are known for their hardworking nature and dedication to their careers. In their pursuit of success, they can sometimes forget about other aspects of life. It may seem that their love for work puts their family life at risk. However, a tanzanite amulet can strengthen their family relationships, helping them find balance between work and personal life. This gemstone not only helps maintain professional dedication but also reminds them of the importance of caring for loved ones and preserving harmony within the family.
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Synthetic

Distinguishing natural tanzanite from synthetic can be done using the following indicators:

 

Pleochroism: Rotate the stone in your hands and observe it from different angles. Natural tanzanite exhibits color shifts and changes depending on the lighting. Some fakes may fluoresce under ultraviolet light (if you have access to such testing), which should not occur with a genuine stone.

 

Color: Genuine gemstones always appear natural. If you notice an overly vivid or unnatural hue, reconsider purchasing from that source.

 

Immersion in Liquid: When submerged in water, a natural mineral like tanzanite will slightly lighten around the edges temporarily. Artificial stones do not change color when immersed.

These methods can help ensure you're purchasing authentic tanzanite rather than a synthetic or imitation.
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Gemmological Characteristics
  • Color: Sapphire blue to amethyst violet
  • Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale
  • Density: 3.35 g/cm³
  • Cleavage: Perfect
  • Fracture: Uneven, brittle
  • Crystal System: Orthorhombic
  • Crystal Habit: Prismatic, richly faceted, often striated
  • Chemical Formula: Ca2Al3[O,OH/SiO4/Si2O7], a variety of zoisite, calcium aluminum silicate of the epidote group
  • Transparency: Transparent
  • Refractive Index: 1.691 – 1.700
  • Birefringence: +0.009
  • Dispersion: 0.030
  • Pleochroism: Very strong – purple, blue, brown
  • Absorption Spectrum Lines: 710, 691, 595, 528, 455 nm
  • Luminescence: None
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Caring for Tanzanite: Rules and Recommendations

Tanzanite is sensitive to sudden temperature changes due to its fragile nature, making it prone to scratches.

It's crucial for jewelers to ensure proper setting to protect the gem.

 

Caring for tanzanite is similar to other gemstones. Before storing, wipe the jewelry and keep it in a separate compartment wrapped in soft fabric. Use a mild soap solution or professional cleaners for cleaning; avoid ultrasonic cleaning. Protect the stone from impacts, direct sunlight, and exposure to steam.

Tanzanites FAQs

What is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is a trade name given to gem-quality crystals of the mineral zoisite, specifically those displaying a striking blue coloration. Found exclusively in Tanzania, it ranks among the most rare gemstones globally. Unlike many other gems with long histories, Tanzanite's discovery occurred relatively recently, in 1967. Its mining area spans approximately eight square miles within the Mererani Hills, situated near Arusha and the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.

How hard is the Tanzanite gemstone?

Tanzanite ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which ranges from 1 to 10, indicating its durability similar to gemstones like amethyst, tourmaline, and garnets. This makes tanzanite suitable for various types of jewelry, though rings should be worn with caution due to the risk of scratching. While the hardness of tanzanite deals with surface scratching, any scratches incurred can typically be polished out with minimal loss to the gem's overall quality.

How Rare and Attractive is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is a thousand times rarer than diamonds! Its scarcity is one of its most celebrated features, with geologists suggesting the likelihood of another such discovery is exceedingly slim, estimated at one in a million.

 

The exceptional rarity and captivating beauty of tanzanite have driven its global value significantly. It quickly ascended to become the second most esteemed gem by 2002 and was promptly added to the birthstone list thereafter. Despite currently being priced at a third of sapphires, tanzanite's value is poised to escalate dramatically. With projections indicating only a few years of mining remaining, experts anticipate its value will soar to new heights.

Can Tanzanite Fade?

Tanzanite exhibits a phenomenon known as color shift and occasionally, but rarely, a color change. Color shift occurs when the gemstone displays different hues under different lighting conditions. In the case of tanzanite, it shifts from blue-violet in incandescent light to violet-blue in daylight, with the second color being more dominant. Stones with a stronger violet component will exhibit the most noticeable shift.

Is tanzanite more expensive than diamonds?

Tanzanite, a gemstone mined for just a few decades from a narrow strip of land measuring only 4 km in Tanzania, is exquisitely beautiful, nearly depleted, and found about 1,000 times less frequently than diamonds. Despite its rarity and allure, diamonds remain significantly more expensive than tanzanite.

When will the supply of Tanzanite be depleted?

Geologists predict that the world's sole Tanzanite source will deplete within a single generation. Those acquiring Tanzanite today will likely be among its last direct owners. If you're considering investing in Tanzanite, explore our latest collection now.

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