Tanzanite: Properties, Benefits & Meanings
Tanzanite Overview
Tanzanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone found only in one place on earth: the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. It was first discovered in 1967, and since then, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
The stone is known for its stunning blue-violet color, which ranges from a soft, subtle hue to a deep, rich shade. It is often cut into various shapes, including oval, pear, and cushion, and is usually set into rings, pendants, and earrings.
In this article, we’ll delve into this unique gemstone’s physical and spiritual properties. We’ll explore its various benefits and meanings and share how it has been used throughout history.
James Allen’s 14K White Gold Tanzanite Diamond Earrings: Alluring halo brilliance.
What Is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a gemstone found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. It is a variety of mineral zoisite and is known for its stunning blue-violet color.
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, having been discovered in 1967. It was named after its place of origin, Tanzania, by Tiffany & Co., the company that introduced it to the world.
This beautuful gemstone is known for its pleochroism, meaning that it exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles. For example, the stone can appear violet, blue, or burgundy, depending on the angle and the light in which it is viewed.
How is Tanzanite Formed?
Tanzanite is a variety of mineral zoisite, a hydrous calcium aluminum silicate. It is formed through a process called metamorphism, which occurs when rocks are subjected to high pressures and temperatures deep within the earth’s crust.
The specific conditions necessary for the formation of Tanzanite are quite rare, which is why the stone is found in only one place on earth: the Merelani Hills of Tanzania.
The process of metamorphism caused the zoisite mineral to become infused with vanadium, which gives Tanzanite gem its unique blue-violet color.
Physical Properties of Tanzanite
| Variety Of | Zoisite |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic crystal system |
| Chemical Formula | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) |
| Color | Many |
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 6.5 to 7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.685 to 1.707 |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Cleavage Quality | Perfect |
| Specific Gravity | 3.35 |
| Transparency | Translucent |
Etymology of Tanzanite
The stone was officially named “tanzanite” by the Tiffany & Co. team, who believed that the name perfectly captured the stone’s unique beauty and connection to Tanzania.
The word “tanzanite” is derived from “Tanzania,” which is the country where the stone is found. It is also related to the word “zanzar,” which means “blue” in the local language of the Masai people, who have lived in the area for centuries.
Where is Tanzanite Found?
Tanzanite is a gemstone found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. The stone was first discovered in 1967, and since then, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
The Merelani Hills are located in the northeastern part of Tanzania, near the city of Arusha. They are part of the larger Kilimanjaro Region, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The area is rich in minerals and has been mined for various minerals, including Tanzanite, for many years.
Tanzanite Appearance
Tanzanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone known for its stunning blue-violet color. The stone can appear violet, blue, or burgundy, depending on the angle and the light in which it is viewed. Green Tanzanite is one of the most rare and precious variety of Tanzanite.
Tanzanite is often cut into various shapes, including oval, pear, and cushion. It is also often cut into faceted stones, which have been cut with a series of flat planes to create a sparkling and reflective surface. This cut is designed to maximize the stone’s brilliance and fire.
Overall, it is a beautiful and unique gemstone known for its stunning blue-violet color and ability to exhibit different colors depending on the angle and light in which it is viewed.
Types of Tanzanite
There are two main types of Tanzanite: natural and treated. Natural Tanzanite is the type of stone found in the Merelani Hills, and it has not been treated or altered in any way. On the other hand, Treated Tanzanite are subjected to various processes to enhance or change its appearance.
Here are some examples of the different types of treated Tanzanite:
- Heat-treated Tanzanite: This type of has been subjected to high temperatures to improve its color. Heat treatment can enhance the stone’s blue-violet color and make it more vibrant.
- Fracture-filled Tanzanite: This type of has been treated with resin or other material to fill in fractures or other blemishes in the stone. The treatment is designed to improve the stone’s appearance and make it more attractive to buyers.
- Dye-treated Tanzanite: This type of has been treated with a dye to enhance or change its color. Dye treatment can create a more uniform color in the stone or give it a different color entirely.
It’s important to note that treated stone is generally less valuable than the natural one.
Tanzanite Value and Price
Tanzanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone known for its stunning blue-violet color and rarity. Several factors influence its value and price, including carat weight, cut, clarity, and color. Here’s a closer look at each of these factors:
- Carat weight: The weight of a gemstone is measured in carats, and the price of the stone increases with its carat weight. Stone with more carat weight is generally more valuable.
- Cut: The cut of a gemstone refers to how it has been shaped and polished. Well-cut piece will have a good balance of symmetry, proportion, and polish, enhancing its overall beauty.
- Clarity: The clarity of a gemstone refers to the presence of inclusions and internal imperfections that can affect the stone’s transparency. It is generally more valuable when it has fewer inclusions and is more transparent.
- Color: Color is one of its most important and valuable features. The stone is known for its beautiful blue-violet color, which ranges from a soft, subtle hue to a deep, rich shade. Stone with a deep, rich color will be more valuable than one with a lighter color.
Larger, well-cut, and high-clarity stone with deep, rich color will have a higher price than a smaller, poorly cut, low-clarity stone with a lighter color.
How Can You Tell if a Tanzanite is Real?
There are a number of ways to tell if a tanzanite stone is real. Here are a few tests that you can use to verify the authenticity of this gem:
- Visual inspection: One way to tell if the stone is real is to inspect it visually. Real Tanzanite will typically have a beautiful blue-violet color that ranges from a soft, subtle hue to a deep, rich shade. It may also exhibit pleochroism, the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles. If the stone lacks color or appears dull, it may be a fake.
- Hardness test: The stone has a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, which means it is a relatively soft gemstone. If you have a testing kit, you can use it to test the hardness of the stone. If the gem is too hard or soft, it may not be real.
- Specific gravity test: The specific gravity of a gemstone is a measure of its density. The gem has a specific gravity of 3.35. If you have a specific gravity testing kit, you can use it to test the density of the stone. If the stone is too dense or not dense enough, it may not be real.
- UV light test: Tanzanite will fluoresce (glow) under UV light. If you have a UV light, you can use it to test the stone. If the stone fluoresces, it is likely real.
- Professional appraisal: If you’re unsure whether sample is real, you can always have it appraised by a professional gemologist. A gemologist will have the knowledge and expertise to identify the stone and verify its authenticity accurately.
It’s important to note that these tests are not foolproof and that there are skilled counterfeiters who can create very convincing fake. If you’re in doubt about the authenticity of a stone, it’s always best to have it appraised by a professional gemologist.
Is Tanzanite a Birthstone?
The most widely accepted traditional birthstones are those recognized by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). Tanzanite is not listed as one of the traditional birthstones. However, it was added to the list of modern birthstones by the American Gem Trade Association in 2002 as a December Birthstone, given that it was only discovered in 1967 and became a popular gemstone in a short time.
Tanzanite is a birthstone for those born in the month of December. If interested you can see some facts About December Birthstones including Tanzanite.
What Does Tanzanite Symbolize?
The stone has several symbolic associations in terms of its physical properties and spiritual meanings. Here are a few examples of what Tanzanite symbolizes:
- Spirituality: The stone is often associated with spirituality and higher consciousness. It is believed to have a powerful energy that can help to connect the wearer to their higher self and the spiritual realm.
- Love and relationships: The stone is sometimes associated with love and relationships and is believed to have the power to enhance communication and understanding between people. It is also thought to be a stone of commitment and is often given as a symbol of love and commitment in relationships.
- Healing: The stone is believed to have powerful healing properties and is thought helpful for various physical and emotional issues. It is often used in crystal healing practices and is believed to help with stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Creativity: The stone is sometimes associated with creativity and is believed to have the power to stimulate the imagination and inspire new ideas. Artists and writers often use it as a source of inspiration and creativity.
Overall, it is a gemstone associated with spirituality, love, healing, and creativity.
Uses of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone that is often used in a variety of ways, including:
- Jewelry: One of the most common uses for Tanzanite is jewelry. The stone is often cut into various shapes, including oval, pear, and cushion, and is usually set into rings, pendants, and earrings. Its unique blue color and high refraction make it a popular choice for use in jewelry.
- Healing: The stone is believed to have powerful healing properties and is often used in crystal healing practices. It is thought to be helpful for various physical and emotional issues, such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Spirituality: The stone is often associated with spirituality and higher consciousness. It is believed to have a powerful energy that can help to connect the wearer to their higher self and the spiritual realm.
- Creativity: The stone is sometimes associated with creativity and is believed to have the power to stimulate the imagination and inspire new ideas. Artists and writers often use it as a source of inspiration and creativity.
Tanzanite is a versatile gemstone that is used for a variety of purposes. Its unique color and properties make it a highly prized gem, often used in jewelry, healing, spirituality, and creativity.
James Allen’s 14K White Gold Tanzanite Diamond Necklace: Alluring halo elegance.
How To Take Care Of Tanzanite Jewelry?
Tanzanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone that is often used in jewelry. If you have jewelry of this stone, it is important to take care of it properly to keep it looking its best. Here are a few tips for taking care of jewelry of this stone:
- Store it separately: The gemstone is a relatively soft. It is prone to scratching and chipping, especially when stored with other jewelry. To protect your tanzanite jewelry, it is best to keep it separate from other jewelry in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with separate compartments.
- Handle it carefully: Avoid wearing it when you are doing activities that could cause it to be damaged, such as sports or heavy manual labor. When you are not wearing it, store it in a safe place where it won’t be knocked around.
- Clean it gently: Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a mild detergent to clean your jewelry. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the stone’s surface. Rinse the jewelry well and dry it thoroughly before storing it.
- Have it checked regularly: It is a good idea to have your jewelry checked periodically by a professional jeweler. They will be able to inspect the setting and the stone to ensure it is secure and in good condition.
FAQ
What works well with Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone, and when it comes to pairing it with other colors and materials, here are a few suggestions for pairing:
White gold or platinum: White gold or platinum can be a beautiful pairing, as it helps to accentuate the stone’s beautiful blue-violet color. The coolness of these metal colors helps offset the warmth of the stone’s color.
Diamonds: Diamonds are a classic choice to pair with this gemstone. The clear sparkle of Diamonds can complement it rich color and enhance the overall sparkle and brilliance of the piece.
Other blue and purple stones: The stone can be paired well with other blue and purple stones, such as sapphires, amethysts, and spinels.The colors work well together and can be complementary, creating an elegant and harmonious look.
Pearls: Pearls can be a great pairing since they provide a neutral and classic look, while the soft luster of pearls can offset the vividness of the Tanzanite. This can help to create a subtle elegance.
Wood and other natural materials: It can be paired well with natural materials such as wood, horn, and bone. It can be a great way to create a rustic, natural look while still showcasing the beautiful color of the stone.
What is special about Tanzanite?
Here are a few things that make it so special:
It’s found only in one place: Tanzanite is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, which makes it one of the rarest gemstones on earth.
The presence of vanadium causes its color: The beautiful blue-violet color is caused by the presence of vanadium, which is infused into the zoisite mineral during metamorphism. This makes its coloration unique to Tanzanite.
Pleochroism: The stone exhibits pleochroism, meaning that it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Short lifespan: It is a relatively new gemstone, it was first discovered in 1967, and the mines are expected to be depleted within the next 20-30 years, which adds to its exclusivity.
Durability: It is a relatively soft gemstone. This means that it is not as hard as some other gemstones, such as diamonds, which makes it more vulnerable to wear and tear.
Versatility: The unique color makes it a versatile stone. It can be paired with many colors and materials to create beautiful and unique jewelry.
Is tanzanite more expensive than a diamond?
Tanzanite is generally considered to be less expensive than diamond. However, the price of it can vary depending on factors such as carat weight, color, and quality. For example, a high-quality stone can range anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars. In contrast, a diamond of the same carat weight can cost tens of thousands of dollars or more.
It’s worth noting that it is a relatively new gemstone compared to diamonds which have been around for centuries and have a long history of value.
