Tanzanite, a gemstone of rare beauty and deep blue-violet hues, has captivated gemologists, jewelers, and collectors since its discovery in 1967. As the birthstone for December and a symbol of elegance and nobility, tanzanite is not only a visual marvel but also a geological and cultural treasure. This article explores the history, formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of tanzanite, drawing from authoritative and verified sources.
Tanzanite is a relatively modern discovery in the world of gemstones, yet it has quickly become one of the most coveted stones in the jewelry industry. Found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, tanzanite is a type of zoisite that undergoes heat treatment to produce its signature blue to violet color. This transformation is due to trace amounts of vanadium, a chemical element responsible for the stone’s deep, velvety tones. The gemstone’s rarity—being limited to a small area of approximately 5 square miles—contributes to its allure and high market value.
As the December birthstone, tanzanite is associated with qualities such as personal empowerment, balance, and emotional clarity. It is also the gemstone for the 24th wedding anniversary, making it a meaningful choice for sentimental jewelry. However, despite its beauty, tanzanite requires careful handling and specific care to maintain its luster and durability over time.
The following sections will explore the history and lore of tanzanite, its geological formation and sources, its gemological properties, its symbolic and metaphysical meanings, and practical advice on how to clean and preserve this rare gemstone.
History and Lore of Tanzanite
Tanzanite’s journey from a newly discovered mineral to a celebrated gemstone began in 1967, when prospectors in Tanzania stumbled upon a unique variety of zoisite. Before this discovery, zoisite was known primarily in its brown form. The transformation of this mineral into the deep blue-violet tanzanite occurs through a natural heat process, which was later replicated in laboratories to enhance the stone’s color.
The Merelani Hills, the only known commercial source of tanzanite, are located in northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. According to local Masai legend, herders first discovered the stones after a lightning strike set their fields ablaze, revealing the gemstone’s beauty. This dramatic origin story adds a layer of mystique to tanzanite’s appeal.
In 1968, the American jewelry company Tiffany & Co. played a pivotal role in popularizing tanzanite. Recognizing its potential for international appeal, the company launched a major advertising campaign that introduced the gemstone to the global market. This strategic marketing effort helped tanzanite become an instant sensation, establishing it as a December birthstone and a symbol of elegance.
Tanzanite is also associated with the 24th wedding anniversary, making it a meaningful choice for sentimental jewelry. Its rarity and vibrant color have made it a favorite among jewelry designers and collectors alike, and its value is expected to rise as the limited supply from the Merelani Hills continues to diminish.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite, a calcium aluminum silicate mineral. In its natural state, zoisite is typically brown. The transformation into tanzanite occurs when the mineral is exposed to natural heat and radiation over time, which alters the structure of the stone and activates the presence of vanadium, resulting in the deep blue to violet color.
The Merelani Hills, the sole commercial source of tanzanite, are located in northern Tanzania. The region's unique geological conditions, including the presence of specific minerals and the right temperature and pressure levels, are essential for the formation of tanzanite. The mining operations in this area involve thousands of workers who excavate the gemstone from depths of over 100 meters (300 feet) underground.
The landscape around the Merelani Hills is characterized by grass-covered hillsides, scrub brush, rocky soil, and an occasional tree. The nearby Mount Kilimanjaro, with its snow-covered slopes, provides a striking backdrop to the mining operations. The limited geographic range of tanzanite production—confined to approximately 5 square miles—contributes to its rarity and value.
As the mine nears depletion, the supply of tanzanite is expected to become even more limited. This scarcity has already driven up the price of tanzanite, and experts predict that its value will continue to rise as the gemstone becomes more difficult to obtain.
Gemological Properties of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is distinguished by its deep blue to violet color, often described as "velvety" due to its saturated and rich hues. The most valuable tanzanite exhibits a pure rich blue-violet color, which is highly sought after in the jewelry market. The color variation in tanzanite is due to the presence of vanadium and the degree of heat treatment the stone undergoes.
The gemstone has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. This means that tanzanite requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. It is also sensitive to high temperatures and sudden temperature changes, which can cause it to crack or lose its color. Additionally, tanzanite can be affected by strong acids such as hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid, further emphasizing the need for proper care.
Tanzanite is typically heat-treated to enhance its color, and this treatment is stable and permanent. The resulting gemstone is prized for its clarity and potential for large, well-cut stones. Tanzanite is often cut into pear, oval, or cushion shapes to maximize its color and brilliance.
The gemstone is usually set in protective mountings, especially when used in rings, to prevent damage. Earrings and pendants are preferred for everyday wear, as they offer better protection for the stone. Tanzanite is available in a range of sizes, from small accent stones to larger centerpieces, making it versatile for different jewelry designs.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite is believed to possess several metaphysical properties that make it a popular choice for those seeking emotional and spiritual balance. It is said to help break down negativity and transform it into positivity. This makes it an ideal stone for individuals looking to overcome obstacles or find motivation in their personal or professional lives.
The gemstone is also associated with the stimulation of the throat, third eye, and crown chakras. These are the energy centers in the body that govern communication, intuition, and spiritual connection. By balancing these chakras, tanzanite is believed to enhance communication skills and psychic abilities.
Tanzanite is thought to help individuals find the perfect balance between personal power and actualization. It is believed to stimulate willpower and aid in the manifestation of goals and aspirations. This makes it a powerful tool for those seeking to achieve their full potential and overcome self-doubt.
The gemstone is also associated with emotional clarity and the ability to see situations from a broader perspective. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote a sense of calm and inner peace. For these reasons, tanzanite is considered a valuable tool for personal growth and spiritual development.
Care and Cleaning of Tanzanite
Due to its relatively low hardness and sensitivity to heat and chemicals, tanzanite requires special care to maintain its beauty and durability. It is not recommended for everyday wear in rings, as the stone can be easily damaged. If worn in a ring, it should be set in a protective mounting to minimize the risk of scratches and impacts.
Tanzanite can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. It should not be exposed to ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone. Additionally, tanzanite should be kept away from strong acids such as hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid, which can react with the gemstone and affect its appearance.
To preserve the color and luster of tanzanite, it is advisable to store the gemstone separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as these can cause the stone to fade or crack. Regular inspection and maintenance are recommended to ensure the longevity of tanzanite jewelry.
When cleaning tanzanite, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. A gentle, pH-neutral soap is the best option for cleaning the gemstone. After cleaning, the stone should be dried with a soft, lint-free cloth to avoid water spots or scratches.
Conclusion
Tanzanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone that has captivated the world since its discovery in 1967. Found only in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, this deep blue-violet stone is a modern marvel in the world of gemology. Its transformation from a brown mineral to a vibrant gemstone through natural heat and radiation makes it a unique and valuable treasure.
As the birthstone for December and the gemstone for the 24th wedding anniversary, tanzanite is associated with qualities such as personal empowerment, emotional clarity, and spiritual balance. It is believed to help individuals overcome negativity, stimulate willpower, and enhance communication and intuition.
Despite its beauty, tanzanite requires careful handling and specific care to maintain its luster and durability. Its relatively low hardness and sensitivity to heat and chemicals make it a gemstone that should be set in protective mountings, especially when used in rings. Cleaning should be done with warm, soapy water, and exposure to ultrasonic or steam cleaners should be avoided.
With its rarity, vibrant color, and rich symbolism, tanzanite continues to be a favorite among gemstone enthusiasts, jewelers, and collectors. As the supply from the Merelani Hills diminishes, the value of tanzanite is expected to rise, making it a gemstone of both beauty and investment.