The December 17th birthstone, Tanzanite, stands out among gemstones not only for its captivating beauty but also for its rarity and profound symbolism. Discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world. It was quickly embraced by the jewelry industry and has since become a cherished symbol for those born on this date, representing spiritual enlightenment, emotional balance, and effective communication.
This article explores the multifaceted nature of Tanzanite, from its geological formation and physical properties to its historical significance and cultural symbolism. We will also examine the practical considerations for wearing and caring for Tanzanite jewelry, as well as the broader context of December birthstones and their evolution over time. By the end of this article, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of why Tanzanite is such a special gemstone for December 17th and how it continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
History and Lore of Tanzanite
Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 by a group of prospectors in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, located in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone was not immediately recognized for its potential. It was a tanzanite miner named Manuel de Souza who first brought the rough stones to the attention of the gemological community. The gem was initially misidentified as another mineral, but after further analysis and cutting, its stunning blue-violet hues became apparent.
The gemstone was named after Tanzania, the only place in the world where it is found. This geographical exclusivity adds to its allure and rarity. Tanzanite’s discovery was a significant event in the gemstone world, as it introduced a new and highly desirable stone. The gemstone quickly gained popularity, becoming a favorite among jewelers and collectors. By the early 1970s, Tanzanite had already established itself as a gemstone of exceptional beauty and value.
The history of Tanzanite is relatively short compared to other gemstones, but it has quickly become an important part of the birthstone tradition. December is one of the few months with multiple official birthstones, and Tanzanite is one of the three traditional December birthstones, alongside Turquoise and Blue Zircon. This diversity allows December-born individuals to choose a gemstone that best reflects their personality and preferences.
The cultural significance of Tanzanite is also growing. In addition to being a December birthstone, it is sometimes associated with spiritual and emotional properties. Many people believe that Tanzanite promotes inner wisdom, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. These attributes have made it a popular choice for those seeking a gemstone that not only looks beautiful but also carries meaningful symbolism.
Geological Formation and Sources of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, which is a calcium aluminum silicate with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH). What makes Tanzanite unique is its color, which is caused by trace amounts of vanadium and iron. The gemstone is typically found in metamorphic rock formations, and its formation is linked to the geological history of the Merelani Hills in Tanzania.
The Merelani Hills are located in the Manyara Region of Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. This area is known for its rich mineral deposits, and the discovery of Tanzanite in this region was a significant event. The gemstone is formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, which are typical of metamorphic environments. The presence of vanadium and iron in the zoisite crystals is what gives Tanzanite its distinctive blue-violet color.
Tanzanite is only found in Tanzania, which adds to its rarity and exclusivity. The gemstone is mined from open-pit and underground mines in the Merelani Hills. The mining process involves extracting the rough stones from the rock and then cutting and polishing them to bring out their natural beauty. The limited availability of Tanzanite, combined with its stunning color and clarity, has made it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
The geological characteristics of Tanzanite also affect its availability and price. Because it is only found in Tanzania, the supply is limited, and the demand is high. This has led to a steady increase in the value of Tanzanite over the years. The gemstone is often compared to sapphires and amethysts in terms of its beauty and rarity, and it is considered a valuable addition to any gemstone collection.
Gemological Properties of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is known for its stunning blue-violet color, which can vary in intensity depending on the lighting conditions. The gemstone is typically cut into faceted shapes to enhance its brilliance and color. The most common cuts for Tanzanite include the emerald cut, round brilliant cut, and princess cut. These cuts are chosen to maximize the gemstone’s refractive properties and to showcase its unique color.
The hardness of Tanzanite on the Mohs scale is 6 to 6.5, which means it is a relatively soft gemstone. This hardness level makes it more susceptible to scratches and abrasions compared to harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. Therefore, Tanzanite is best suited for jewelry that is worn on the body, such as pendants, earrings, and brooches. It is less commonly used for rings, especially those that are worn on a daily basis, as they are more likely to be exposed to impact and wear.
Tanzanite has a refractive index of 1.69 to 1.72, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. The gemstone is also known for its pleochroism, which means it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This property is one of the reasons why Tanzanite is so visually striking. The color can range from deep blue to violet, depending on the lighting conditions and the viewing angle.
The clarity of Tanzanite is usually good to very good, with most stones being free of visible inclusions. However, some Tanzanite may contain minor inclusions that are not easily seen with the naked eye. These inclusions are considered natural and add to the gemstone’s character and uniqueness. The weight of Tanzanite is measured in carats, and the most valuable stones are typically those that are larger in size and have a rich, even color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is not only valued for its beauty and rarity but also for its symbolic and metaphysical properties. In the world of gemstone lore, Tanzanite is often associated with spiritual growth, emotional balance, and effective communication. These attributes make it a popular choice for those born on December 17th and for individuals seeking a gemstone that supports their personal and spiritual development.
One of the most significant symbolic meanings of Tanzanite is spiritual enlightenment. The deep blue tones of the gemstone are believed to encourage a connection with higher realms of consciousness. Many people use Tanzanite in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance their awareness and understanding. The gemstone is thought to open the third eye chakra, which is associated with intuition, insight, and higher knowledge.
Another important symbolic meaning of Tanzanite is emotional balance. The gemstone is believed to have a calming effect on emotions and to help individuals navigate the complexities of their emotional landscape with grace and poise. Those who wear or use Tanzanite often report feeling more centered and balanced, which can be particularly beneficial during times of stress or uncertainty.
Tanzanite is also associated with effective communication and self-expression. The gemstone is linked to the throat chakra, which governs the ability to express thoughts and feelings clearly. Those who wear Tanzanite may find that they are able to articulate their ideas more effectively and communicate more openly with others. This property makes Tanzanite a valuable gemstone for those who work in professions that require strong communication skills, such as teaching, public speaking, and counseling.
In addition to these symbolic meanings, Tanzanite is also believed to promote transformation and new beginnings. The gemstone is often used in rituals and ceremonies that mark significant life changes, such as moving to a new home, starting a new job, or beginning a new relationship. Its association with transformation and growth makes it a powerful symbol of change and renewal.
Care and Cleaning of Tanzanite Jewelry
Because Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, it requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity. The gemstone has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is more susceptible to scratches and abrasions compared to harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. Therefore, it is important to handle Tanzanite jewelry with care and to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
One of the most important aspects of caring for Tanzanite jewelry is to protect it from physical damage. Tanzanite should not be worn during activities that involve contact with hard surfaces, such as gardening, sports, or manual labor. It is also advisable to remove Tanzanite jewelry before sleeping, swimming, or engaging in any activity that could potentially cause it to be knocked or scratched.
Cleaning Tanzanite jewelry should be done with care to avoid damaging the gemstone or the setting. A gentle cleaning solution of warm water and mild dish soap is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The jewelry can be soaked in the solution for a few minutes and then gently cleaned with a soft-bristled brush. After cleaning, the jewelry should be rinsed thoroughly with clean water and dried with a soft, lint-free cloth.
It is important to avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners for Tanzanite jewelry, as these can cause damage to the gemstone or the setting. Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency vibrations that can dislodge loose stones or damage the structure of the jewelry. Steam cleaners use high heat, which can cause the gemstone to become dry or cracked.
When storing Tanzanite jewelry, it is best to keep it in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with separate compartments to prevent it from coming into contact with other gemstones or metal pieces. This helps to prevent scratches and abrasions. It is also advisable to store Tanzanite jewelry away from direct sunlight and sources of heat, as these can cause the gemstone to fade or lose its luster over time.
Regular inspection of Tanzanite jewelry is also important to ensure that the gemstone remains secure in its setting and that the jewelry is in good condition. If any damage is detected, such as a loose stone or a broken prong, it is advisable to have the jewelry inspected and repaired by a professional jeweler.
The Broader Context of December Birthstones
December is one of the few months with multiple official birthstones, which provides December-born individuals with a range of options to choose from. In addition to Tanzanite, the other official December birthstones are Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones has its own unique characteristics and symbolism, allowing individuals to select a birthstone that best reflects their personality and preferences.
Turquoise is the most traditional December birthstone and has been used for centuries in jewelry and decorative arts. It is known for its distinctive blue-green color and is often associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual healing. Turquoise is a softer gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it is often set in silver or gold to enhance its beauty.
Blue Zircon is another December birthstone that is valued for its brilliance and fire. It has a refractive index similar to diamonds, which gives it a dazzling sparkle. Blue Zircon is also a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than Tanzanite. It is often used in engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces.
Blue Topaz is the alternative December birthstone and is known for its bright, clear blue color. It is a harder gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more suitable for everyday wear. Blue Topaz is also less expensive than Tanzanite, making it a popular choice for those who want a beautiful and affordable birthstone.
The availability of multiple December birthstones allows individuals to choose a gemstone that best suits their lifestyle and preferences. Whether they prefer the deep blue hues of Tanzanite, the traditional charm of Turquoise, the brilliance of Blue Zircon, or the vibrant color of Blue Topaz, there is a December birthstone for everyone.
Conclusion
Tanzanite, the December 17th birthstone, is a remarkable gemstone that combines beauty, rarity, and symbolism. Discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, it quickly became a favorite among jewelers and collectors. Its stunning blue-violet color, unique geological properties, and limited availability make it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
In addition to its physical beauty, Tanzanite is also associated with spiritual and emotional properties. It is believed to promote spiritual enlightenment, emotional balance, and effective communication. These attributes make it a valuable gemstone for those born on December 17th and for individuals seeking a gemstone that supports their personal and spiritual development.
The care and maintenance of Tanzanite jewelry require special attention due to its relative softness. Proper handling, cleaning, and storage are essential to preserving its beauty and longevity. Tanzanite should be protected from physical damage and exposure to harsh chemicals, and it should be stored in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches.
The broader context of December birthstones also highlights the unique position of Tanzanite. December is one of the few months with multiple official birthstones, allowing individuals to choose a gemstone that best reflects their personality and preferences. Whether it is the deep blue hues of Tanzanite, the traditional charm of Turquoise, the brilliance of Blue Zircon, or the vibrant color of Blue Topaz, there is a December birthstone for everyone.
Overall, Tanzanite is a gemstone that continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and collectors around the world. Its rarity, beauty, and symbolism make it a valuable and meaningful addition to any jewelry collection. As the December 17th birthstone, it serves as a powerful symbol of individuality, transformation, and spiritual growth.