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Tanzanite
The Rare Blue-Violet Treasure Born Beneath Mount Kilimanjaro
What Is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is the violet-blue to blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. Zoisite itself naturally occurs in a wide range of colors, including gray, yellow, brown, green, colorless, blue, and violet. Tanzanite is unique because of its striking blue shades, which make it highly sought after as a gemstone. Its captivating color is due to the presence of the element vanadium. This rare gemstone has quickly become a favorite among collectors and jewelry lovers alike.
Discovery and Naming
Blue zoisite was discovered in 1967 in Tanzania by a Masai tribesman named Ali Juuyawatu. Just a year later, in 1968, Tiffany & Co. officially named the gem “Tanzanite” and became its main distributor. The discovery quickly brought international attention to this previously unknown stone. Its name reflects its country of origin, making it instantly recognizable. Tanzanite has since become synonymous with elegance and rarity.
Where Tanzanite Is Found
Tanzanite is mined in only one place on Earth—the Merelani Hills, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This exclusive location adds to the gemstone’s rarity and value. Because it is only found in a small geographic area, the supply of high-quality stones is limited. Large, vivid blue Tanzanite stones are especially rare and highly prized by collectors, museums, and investors. The uniqueness of its origin makes Tanzanite a truly remarkable gem.
Optical Properties and Quality
Tanzanite is a pleochroic gemstone, which means it can show different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect, called pleochroism, gives Tanzanite a fascinating depth and visual complexity. The highest quality Tanzanites display a vivid blue color, which is the most sought after. Stones with this intense color are rare and command high prices. Even smaller stones can be valuable if they show strong color and clarity.
Durability, Meaning, and Care
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for most jewelry. It is the birthstone for December and the gemstone for the 24th wedding anniversary. Many believe Tanzanite has spiritual benefits, helping to stimulate joy, restore balance, and recover personal power. To preserve its beauty, the safest way to clean Tanzanite is with a soft toothbrush and warm, soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone.