Tanzanite: A Gemstone of Beauty and Rarity

Tanzanite: A Gemstone of Beauty and Rarity

Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, having only been discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Despite its recent discovery, tanzanite has quickly become one of the most popular and sought-after gemstones in the world, thanks to its stunning blue-violet color and exceptional brilliance.

In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating world of tanzanite, from its geological origins to its unique properties and uses. We will also provide tips on how to care for your tanzanite jewelry and how to spot a genuine tanzanite from a fake.

The Geology of Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, which is a member of the epidote group of minerals. Zoisite is typically a colorless or white mineral, but when it contains trace amounts of vanadium, it takes on a beautiful blue-violet color. The vanadium content in tanzanite can vary, resulting in a range of colors from light blue to deep violet.

Tanzanite is only found in a small area of the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. The tanzanite-bearing rocks in this area are formed from the metamorphism of volcanic ash and sediments. The high temperatures and pressures of metamorphism cause the vanadium-rich minerals in the ash and sediments to recrystallize into tanzanite.

The Properties of Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a relatively hard gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. This makes it durable enough for everyday wear, but it is still important to take care of your tanzanite jewelry to avoid scratching or chipping.

Tanzanite is also a very brittle gemstone, meaning that it can easily break if it is dropped or hit against a hard surface. It is important to store your tanzanite jewelry in a safe place where it will not be damaged.

Tanzanite is a pleochroic gemstone, which means that it exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles. The most common colors of tanzanite are blue and violet, but the gemstone can also appear green, yellow, or brown.

The Uses of Tanzanite

Tanzanite is primarily used in jewelry, where it is prized for its beauty and rarity. Tanzanite is often used in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. It is also sometimes used in brooches and other pieces of jewelry.

In addition to its use in jewelry, tanzanite is also used in a variety of other applications, including:

• As a collector's item: Tanzanite is a popular collector's item due to its rarity and beauty. Tanzanite crystals and specimens are often sold to collectors and museums.
• In art: Tanzanite is sometimes used in art, where it is prized for its unique color and texture. Tanzanite sculptures and paintings are often displayed in galleries and museums.
• In industry: Tanzanite is sometimes used in industry, where it is used as a cutting tool and as an abrasive.

How to Care for Your Tanzanite Jewelry

Tanzanite is a relatively delicate gemstone, so it is important to take care of your tanzanite jewelry to avoid damaging it. Here are a few tips for caring for your tanzanite jewelry:

• Store your tanzanite jewelry in a safe place. Tanzanite is a brittle gemstone, so it is important to store it in a safe place where it will not be damaged. A jewelry box or a soft cloth pouch are good options for storing tanzanite jewelry.
• Avoid exposing your tanzanite jewelry to extreme temperatures. Tanzanite can be damaged by extreme heat or cold. Avoid wearing your tanzanite jewelry in the sauna, hot tub, or swimming pool. You should also avoid leaving your tanzanite jewelry in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
• Clean your tanzanite jewelry regularly. Tanzanite jewelry can be cleaned with a mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone.
• Have your tanzanite jewelry inspected regularly. It is important to have your tanzanite jewelry inspected regularly by a qualified jeweler to check for any damage or wear and tear.

How to Spot a Genuine Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a valuable gemstone, so it is important to be able to spot a genuine tanzanite from a fake. Here are a few tips for spotting a genuine tanzanite:

• Look at the color. Tanzanite is a blue-violet gemstone, but the color can vary from light blue to deep violet. The color of tanzanite should be even and consistent throughout the gemstone.
• Look at the clarity. Tanzanite is a relatively clear gemstone, but it may contain some inclusions. Inclusions are tiny flaws or imperfections that occur naturally in gemstones. The inclusions in tanzanite should be small and inconspicuous.
• Look at the cut. Tanzanite is typically cut into a brilliant cut, which is a type of cut that maximizes the gemstone's brilliance and fire. The cut of tanzanite should be symmetrical and well-proportioned.
• Get a certificate of authenticity. When you purchase a tanzanite gemstone or piece of jewelry, it is important to get a certificate of authenticity from the seller. This certificate should state that the gemstone is a genuine tanzanite.

By following these tips, you can be sure that you are purchasing a genuine tanzanite gemstone or piece of jewelry.