Tanzanite, with its striking blue-violet hues and rare geological origins, has earned its place as one of the most captivating December birthstones. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania and formally added to the list of official birthstones in 2002, tanzanite quickly captured the attention of gemologists, jewelers, and collectors alike. As a gemstone found exclusively in a small region near Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is not only rare but also deeply symbolic. Its vivid colors and mystical allure make it a fitting representation of December, a month often associated with reflection, renewal, and the search for inner light during the winter solstice.
This article delves into the rich history, geological formation, gemological properties, and cultural significance of tanzanite. We will explore how this gemstone became the official birthstone for December, its unique physical characteristics, and the metaphysical beliefs that surround it. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the meaning behind December birthdays, this guide will provide a comprehensive and authoritative overview of tanzanite.
History and Lore
Tanzanite is a relatively new addition to the world of gemstones, having been discovered in the mid-20th century. Its official status as a December birthstone was established in 2002 by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). Prior to that, December was represented by turquoise and zircon, both of which have a long history of use in jewelry and cultural traditions. The addition of tanzanite to the list was a strategic move by the AGTA to promote this rare and beautiful gemstone, which is estimated to be 1,000 times rarer than diamonds.
The idea of birthstones dates back to biblical times, though the modern list was formalized in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers. Birthstones are believed to bring good luck, health, and protection to those born in the corresponding month. Tanzanite’s inclusion in this list reflects not only its aesthetic appeal but also its symbolic connection to transformation, spiritual growth, and emotional healing.
Tanzanite was named by the renowned jewelry brand Tiffany & Co., which played a pivotal role in introducing the gemstone to the international market. The name "tanzanite" is derived from the country of Tanzania, where the gem is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills, a region near Mount Kilimanjaro. This geographic exclusivity contributes to its rarity and makes it one of the few gemstones that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
The gemstone’s popularity grew rapidly after its discovery, and it soon became a favorite among jewelers and collectors. Its deep blue-violet color is particularly striking, and it has been likened to the night sky, symbolizing mystery, depth, and wisdom. In some cultures, tanzanite is believed to serve as a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds, encouraging introspection and personal insight.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, specifically known as blue zoisite. Its formation is the result of a unique geological process involving heat, pressure, and the presence of vanadium, which is responsible for its distinctive blue and violet hues. This combination of conditions is so rare that tanzanite is found exclusively in a small region of Tanzania, making it one of the most geographically limited gemstones in the world.
The Merelani Hills in northern Tanzania are the only known source of tanzanite. This region is situated near Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the most iconic and recognizable peaks in Africa. The geological conditions in this area, including the presence of specific minerals and the right temperature and pressure, have allowed tanzanite to form over millions of years. The gemstone’s rarity is further enhanced by the fact that only a small percentage of raw material from the Merelani Hills can be transformed into high-quality tanzanite suitable for jewelry.
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone compared to others on the Mohs scale of hardness. It typically ranks between 6 and 7, which means it is more susceptible to scratches and chips than harder stones like diamonds or sapphires. This softness requires careful handling and proper care to maintain its luster and integrity. Jewelers and gemologists recommend storing tanzanite separately from other gemstones to prevent damage and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasive substances.
The mining of tanzanite is a significant economic activity in Tanzania. The gemstone has become an important export for the country, and its discovery in the 1960s helped to establish Tanzania as a major player in the global gemstone market. Despite its economic importance, the supply of tanzanite is limited, and experts predict that the gemstone may become even more rare in the future as mining operations continue to deplete the available deposits.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite is distinguished by its unique combination of color and clarity. It exhibits a range of colors from deep blue to violet to purplish-blue, making it one of the most versatile and attractive gemstones. This color variation is due to the presence of vanadium, which gives tanzanite its striking hues. The gemstone is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows it to display different colors depending on the angle from which it is viewed. This means that a single tanzanite stone can appear blue, violet, or even purplish-blue under different lighting conditions.
In terms of clarity, tanzanite is often cut to emphasize its color and to reduce the visibility of inclusions. While it is not as flawless as diamonds, high-quality tanzanite can have very clean, transparent appearances with minimal visible inclusions. The most valuable tanzanite stones are those that display intense blue and violet colors with excellent clarity and a well-balanced cut.
The refractive index of tanzanite is another important gemological property. It typically ranges between 1.690 and 1.705, which contributes to its brilliance and sparkle when properly cut. Tanzanite is usually faceted to enhance its light performance, and the most popular cuts include the oval, cushion, and emerald cuts. These cuts help to maximize the gemstone’s color and brilliance while also protecting it from damage.
Tanzanite is available in a wide range of carat weights, from small melee stones to large, statement pieces. The most common sizes for jewelry are between 1 and 5 carats, though larger stones are occasionally available for special designs. The price of tanzanite varies depending on factors such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, with the most valuable stones being those that exhibit the deepest blue and violet hues.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite is associated with a variety of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. In some cultures, it is believed to encourage transformation and personal growth, making it a particularly fitting birthstone for December, a time of reflection and renewal. The gemstone is also thought to promote emotional healing and help individuals let go of negative experiences. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking to overcome challenges or embrace new beginnings.
Tanzanite is often linked to the throat chakra, which is associated with communication and self-expression. It is believed to enhance one’s ability to communicate effectively and express their thoughts and emotions with clarity and confidence. This property makes tanzanite a popular gemstone for those who work in fields that require public speaking, writing, or other forms of communication.
In addition to its association with communication, tanzanite is also believed to have calming and soothing effects. It is thought to help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of peace and balance. This makes it a valuable gemstone for those who are dealing with emotional or psychological challenges, as it is believed to provide comfort and support during difficult times.
Tanzanite is also associated with the winter solstice, which occurs in December in the Northern Hemisphere. This time of year is often seen as a period of introspection and renewal, and tanzanite is believed to support this process by encouraging individuals to reflect on their lives and make positive changes. Its deep blue and violet hues are said to symbolize the mysteries of the universe and the depth of one’s inner self.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for preserving the beauty and integrity of tanzanite. Due to its relative softness and susceptibility to scratches, tanzanite requires careful handling and storage. It is recommended to store tanzanite separately from other gemstones to prevent damage, using a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to protect it from contact with harder materials.
Cleaning tanzanite should be done gently to avoid damaging the stone. A soft cloth or a mild soapy water solution can be used to clean the gemstone, and it is important to avoid using abrasive substances or steam cleaners, as these can harm the integrity of the stone. After cleaning, the gemstone should be dried with a soft, lint-free cloth to restore its luster.
Tanzanite should also be protected from hard impacts and physical activities that could cause it to chip or crack. It is advisable to remove tanzanite jewelry before engaging in activities that involve physical contact or the use of harsh chemicals. Regular inspection of tanzanite jewelry is also recommended to check for any signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion
Tanzanite is a gemstone of remarkable beauty, rarity, and symbolism. As the December birthstone, it represents transformation, spiritual growth, and emotional healing. Its deep blue and violet hues, combined with its unique geological origins, make it a truly one-of-a-kind gemstone. Whether used in jewelry, as a decorative piece, or as a symbol of personal meaning, tanzanite continues to captivate those who encounter it.
The addition of tanzanite to the list of official birthstones in 2002 marked a significant milestone in the history of gemstones. Its rarity and exclusivity, combined with its rich symbolism and cultural significance, have made it a beloved choice for December birthdays. As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, tanzanite serves as a reminder of the light and beauty that can emerge from life’s challenges, making it a perfect representation of the spirit of December.