Discovered in 1967 in the shadows of Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite quickly became one of the world’s most coveted gemstones. This vibrant blue and violet gemstone, named after its country of origin, Tanzania, is truly unique. Found only in a single location on Earth, tanzanite’s allure lies not only in its breath-taking colour but also in its rarity.
1. What Is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a blue-to-violet variety of the mineral zoisite, a member of the epidote group. It owes its mesmerizing colours to trace amounts of vanadium and is known for its strong pleochroism—a property that causes the gemstone to display different colours when viewed from various angles. The stone can appear blue, violet, or burgundy, depending on the light source and viewing direction.
2. The Discovery and History of Tanzanite
Legend has it that tanzanite was first found by Maasai herders after a lightning storm in Tanzania’s Merelani Hills. The intense heat had sparked a fire in the grasslands, revealing these vibrant blue stones. Soon after, Tiffany & Co. recognized its potential and introduced tanzanite to the global market, giving it the name "Tanzanite" and dubbing it the “gemstone of the 20th century.” Tanzanite quickly captivated jewellers and collectors alike for its unique colour, which rivals even sapphires.
3. What Makes Tanzanite So Unique?
- Rarity: Tanzanite is mined exclusively in a 14-square-kilometer area near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Experts believe that the tanzanite deposits could be depleted within our lifetime, adding to its allure and value.
- Colour: Tanzanite’s deep blue with flashes of violet is unlike any other gemstone. The colour intensity often correlates with the gem’s value, with deeper blues typically being more valuable.
- Pleochroism: Tanzanite displays different colours based on the viewing angle, giving it a dynamic and shifting appearance. This makes each tanzanite gemstone seem alive, as it changes colour with movement and lighting.
4. Tanzanite Quality and Grading
Tanzanite quality is graded by colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Here’s a closer look:
- Colour: The most prized tanzanite's are rich, velvety blue with flashes of violet, graded as AAA. Lower grades may have lighter hues.
- Clarity: High-quality tanzanite is typically eye-clean, with minimal inclusions visible to the naked eye.
- Cut: A well-cut tanzanite enhances its pleochroic properties, allowing it to display maximum colour from multiple angles.
- Carat: As with most gemstones, the value increases with size, though smaller tanzanite stones still capture brilliant colour.
5. Tanzanite as a Birthstone and Gift
In 2002, tanzanite was officially recognized as a December birthstone, joining turquoise and zircon. Its rarity and stunning beauty make it an extraordinary gift, often associated with new beginnings, success, and transformation. For these reasons, it’s a popular choice for engagement rings, anniversary jewellery, and statement pieces.
6. Caring for Tanzanite Jewellery
While tanzanite is a beautiful gemstone, it is also relatively soft, with a hardness of about 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Here’s how to care for it:
- Avoid Hard Knocks: Tanzanite can be scratched or chipped more easily than harder stones like diamonds or sapphires. Reserve it for special occasions, and store it separately from other gemstones.
- Gentle Cleaning: Clean tanzanite with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as the heat can damage the stone.
- Proper Storage: When not wearing, store tanzanite jewellery in a padded box or soft cloth bag to protect it from scratches.
7. Why Invest in Tanzanite?
With its single-origin status, tanzanite is often considered an investment gem. Demand is rising as consumers become more interested in ethically sourced, unique stones, and the potential for a limited supply increases tanzanite’s appeal. For collectors and investors alike, tanzanite represents not only a beautiful gemstone but also a rare piece of Earth’s natural beauty.
Conclusion
Tanzanite’s allure goes beyond its captivating colours; it’s a gemstone with a story, a unique origin, and a bright yet uncertain future. Whether you’re drawn to its rarity, its investment potential, or simply its beauty, tanzanite makes an unforgettable addition to any collection.
So, if you’re looking for a gemstone that’s not only beautiful but also rare and meaningful, tanzanite might just be the perfect choice.