Tanzanite is a strikingly beautiful blue-violet gemstone and a celebrated birthstone for December, often presented as an alternative to turquoise. Discovered relatively recently in Tanzania, it quickly gained prominence due to its vivid color and clarity, becoming a popular choice for jewelry and a symbol of positivity and transformation. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this captivating gemstone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
While gemstones have been treasured for millennia, tanzanite’s story is a modern one. The first discovery of blue zoisite, as tanzanite is scientifically known, occurred in Africa in 1967. Prospectors located the primary source in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania a few years later. It wasn’t until 1968 that the gemstone was officially named “tanzanite” in honor of its country of origin.
Recognizing its potential, Tiffany & Co. became the main distributor of tanzanite and launched a significant advertising campaign to introduce it to an international audience. The gemstone quickly gained popularity, celebrated for its rich color, high clarity, and potential for large cut stones. Today, tanzanite is not only a December birthstone but also the recognized gem for the 24th wedding anniversary, signifying a lasting and vibrant commitment.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite’s origin is remarkably localized. The Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania remain the only place on Earth where this gemstone is commercially mined. The mining operations, some mechanized, involve digging over 100 meters deep into the earth, with thousands of workers participating in the recovery process. The landscape surrounding the mines is characterized by grass-covered hillsides, scrub brush, and rocky soil, overlooked by the snow-covered slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. This unique geological setting is crucial to the formation of tanzanite, making it a truly rare and geographically specific gem.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite belongs to the zoisite mineral species. Its most defining characteristic is its vivid blue-violet color, ranging from deep blue to pale lavender blue, with the purest blue hues being the most valuable. The gem is also pleochroic, meaning it displays different colors when viewed from different angles after exposure to direct light.
Regarding durability, tanzanite has a hardness of approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This places it softer than diamonds and sapphires, requiring careful handling to prevent scratching or damage.
The value of tanzanite is determined by several factors, often summarized by the “Four Cs”:
- Carat: The weight of the gemstone, with larger stones (over 5 carats) generally commanding higher prices.
- Clarity: Tanzanite is most valuable when it is crystal clear to the naked eye. While natural inclusions visible only under magnification do not significantly detract from value, fractures, cracks, or evidence of treatment can substantially reduce it.
- Cut: The technique used to cut the gemstone significantly impacts its color display. Tanzanite cutting often results in less wastage compared to other gems, and the final color of the finished stone is a key determinant of value.
- Color: The proportion and intensity of the blue and violet hues are critical for valuation.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Tanzanite is believed to bring positivity to the wearer’s life, converting negative energies into positive ones and increasing inner strength. It is also associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual insight, making it a meaningful choice for those seeking personal growth and clarity. The gemstone’s captivating color and unique properties contribute to its perceived ability to inspire and uplift.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relative softness, tanzanite requires careful handling and maintenance. Jewelry pieces featuring tanzanite should be gently wiped with a damp cloth and/or polishing cloth before storage. It is recommended to store tanzanite jewelry in a microsuede pouch to protect it from daily exposure to elements that can cause tarnishing or damage. Ensuring the jewelry is completely dry before storage is also crucial. While durable with proper care, tanzanite is susceptible to scratches and should be protected from harsh impacts.
Tanzanite in Jewellery
Tanzanite is a versatile gemstone used in a variety of jewellery designs. It is frequently set in 18-karat white gold, often rhodium plated for a high-polish finish. Pendants featuring tanzanite are popular, with stones typically around 3.5mm in size. Necklaces often feature adjustable chains, allowing for versatility in wear. Some designs incorporate removable pendants, enabling customization with other birthstone pendants. Tanzanite is also increasingly used in engagement rings, offering a unique and captivating alternative to traditional diamond rings. The gemstone is crafted into jewellery using quality materials such as 925 sterling silver and 14k gold vermeil with at least 2.5 microns of gold, ensuring lasting durability and a radiant finish. Natural gemstones are used, meaning each stone is distinct and may exhibit slight variations in colour.
Investment Potential
While tanzanite is a valuable and beautiful gemstone, its investment potential is subject to market fluctuations. It is important to research and consider various factors before considering tanzanite as an investment. The carat value of a tanzanite stone is clearly mentioned in product descriptions, allowing buyers to assess its weight and potential worth.
Conclusion
Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, has quickly established itself as a highly prized gemstone. Its unique geological origin, captivating color, and symbolic meaning have contributed to its popularity as a December birthstone and a cherished gemstone for various occasions. While requiring careful handling due to its relative softness, tanzanite offers a stunning and meaningful addition to any jewelry collection, representing transformation, intuition, and the enduring beauty of the natural world.