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Tanzanite: A Collector's Gemstone
Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone that is found in only one place on Earth: the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. This beautiful mineral is known for its deep purple-blue color and its unique crystal structure. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at tanzanite, including its history, properties, and value as a collector's gemstone.
History of Tanzanite
Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 by a Maasai tribesman named Ali Juuyawatu. Juuyawatu was herding cattle in the Merelani Hills when he came across a strange blue crystal. He took the crystal to a local geologist, who identified it as a new variety of zoisite. The geologist named the mineral tanzanite after the country of its origin.
Tanzanite quickly became a popular gemstone, and it was soon being used in jewelry around the world. The demand for tanzanite has continued to grow in recent years, and it is now considered to be one of the most valuable gemstones in the world.
Properties of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a member of the zoisite mineral group. It is a relatively hard mineral, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5. Tanzanite is also a very dense mineral, with a specific gravity of 3.35.
The most distinctive property of tanzanite is its color. Tanzanite is typically a deep purple-blue color, but it can also be found in shades of green, yellow, and brown. The color of tanzanite is caused by the presence of vanadium and chromium impurities.
Tanzanite is also a very pleochroic mineral, which means that it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This is due to the way that the light interacts with the crystal structure of tanzanite.
Value of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a valuable gemstone, and the price of tanzanite can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size, color, and clarity of the stone. The most valuable tanzanite stones are those that are large, have a deep purple-blue color, and are free of inclusions.
The value of tanzanite has also been affected by its rarity. Tanzanite is only found in one place on Earth, and the supply of tanzanite is limited. This has helped to keep the price of tanzanite high.
Tanzanite as a Collector's Gemstone
Tanzanite is a beautiful and valuable gemstone that is perfect for collectors. Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone, and it is becoming increasingly popular. This makes tanzanite a good investment, as the value of tanzanite is likely to continue to increase in the future.
Tanzanite is also a very versatile gemstone that can be used in a variety of jewelry settings. Tanzanite can be used in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Tanzanite can also be used in combination with other gemstones, such as diamonds and sapphires.
If you are looking for a beautiful and valuable gemstone to add to your collection, tanzanite is a great option. Tanzanite is a unique and rare gemstone that is sure to impress.