Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the world of recognized gemstones, and specifically, to the list of birthstones associated with December. This captivating violet-blue variety of the mineral zoisite is prized for its trichroism – the ability to display different colors depending on the viewing angle. The provided sources highlight tanzanite’s use in contemporary jewelry, particularly earrings, and offer insights into the materials used in its settings, as well as basic care instructions. This article will explore the available information regarding this gemstone, focusing on its current use in jewelry and the materials commonly paired with it.
Contemporary Jewelry Applications
The primary focus of the provided sources is the application of tanzanite within modern jewelry designs. Several retailers showcase tanzanite as a featured gemstone in earrings, specifically “birthstone earrings.” These earrings are available in a variety of settings, including gold-filled, sterling silver, and 14K gold. The sources indicate a range of price points, reflecting the materials used and the size of the tanzanite stone.
One retailer offers tanzanite earrings with 5mm stones set in 14K gold, while others feature smaller stones in various gold settings. The sources also demonstrate a trend towards incorporating multiple gemstones into single pieces, such as geometric bar necklaces and cluster earrings. This allows for a diverse aesthetic and the inclusion of different birthstones within a single design. The availability of “youth” birthstone earrings, featuring smaller, more affordable stones, suggests a market catering to younger consumers or those seeking less expensive options.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The sources emphasize the quality of materials used in conjunction with tanzanite. Gold-filled jewelry is presented as a durable and hypoallergenic alternative to gold-plated options. The distinction is made that gold-filled jewelry contains 58.5% pure gold, mixed with other metals for strength. This composition ensures longevity and suitability for everyday wear.
The use of 14K gold is also prominent, with retailers specifying the authenticity of their gold through hallmark stamps. The sources also mention the use of diamonds in combination with tanzanite, specifically in bezel-set bar earrings, indicating a desire to enhance the brilliance and value of the pieces. The inclusion of pearls and other gemstones alongside tanzanite in multi-gemstone designs demonstrates a versatility in design and a willingness to combine different aesthetic qualities.
Care and Maintenance
The sources provide basic guidance on the care and maintenance of gold jewelry featuring gemstones, including tanzanite. It is recommended to clean gemstones with warm water and mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals like perfume and hairspray. Pearls, when included in the same piece, require particularly gentle handling with a soft, damp cloth. The sources advise storing jewelry separately to prevent scratches and damage. These instructions highlight the delicate nature of both the gemstones and the precious metals used in their settings.
Birthstone Significance and December Association
While the sources do not delve into the historical origins or metaphysical properties of tanzanite, they clearly establish its association with the month of December as a birthstone. The consistent listing of “Birthstone December Tanzanite Earrings” across multiple retailers confirms this contemporary designation. The sources do not provide information on why tanzanite was chosen as a December birthstone, or its historical use prior to its modern recognition.
Available Data Limitations
The provided sources are primarily marketing materials from jewelry retailers. As such, they lack in-depth gemological information regarding tanzanite’s chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness, or geological formation. They also do not offer historical context regarding the discovery of tanzanite, its cultural significance beyond its current role as a birthstone, or detailed information about its mining locations. The information is limited to the current market availability of tanzanite jewelry, the materials used in its construction, and basic care instructions.
Due to the limited scope of the provided sources, a 2000-word article providing a comprehensive overview of tanzanite is not feasible. The following table summarizes the key information gleaned from the sources:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gemstone | Tanzanite (variety of zoisite) |
| Birthstone Month | December |
| Common Jewelry Type | Earrings (huggies, studs, drop) |
| Metal Settings | 14K Gold, Gold-Filled, Sterling Silver |
| Additional Gemstones | Diamonds, Pearls, Amethyst, Citrine, Garnet, Lapis Lazuli, Moonstone, Turquoise, Ruby, Emerald Quartz |
| Gold Composition | 14K Gold = 58.5% pure gold |
| Care Instructions | Warm water & mild soap, avoid harsh chemicals, store separately |
| Price Range (approx.) | $45 - $1552 (USD) - varies by metal and stone size |
Conclusion
The provided sources demonstrate the current popularity of tanzanite as a December birthstone, primarily within the context of contemporary jewelry design. Retailers offer a variety of tanzanite earrings in different settings and price ranges, emphasizing the quality of materials and providing basic care instructions. While the sources lack detailed gemological or historical information, they effectively showcase tanzanite’s aesthetic appeal and its place in the modern birthstone market. Further research utilizing more comprehensive sources would be necessary to provide a complete understanding of this captivating gemstone.