The Gemstone of a Generation: What You Need to Know About Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a true marvel of the modern gem world. Despite being discovered just a few decades ago, its stunning beauty and extreme rarity have quickly made it one of the most sought-after gemstones on the planet. If you're a jewelry lover or looking for a truly unique piece, this comprehensive guide to tanzanite stone is for you.
What Is Tanzanite? A Story of Discovery
The story of tanzanite begins in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. It was discovered by a Maasai tribesman, and while it was initially thought to be a sapphire, it was soon identified as a distinct and new variety of the mineral zoisite.
The stone was named tanzanite by the renowned jeweler Tiffany & Co. in honor of its country of origin, Tanzania. Its breathtaking color captured the attention of the world, and it was quickly hailed as "the most important gemstone discovery in over 2,000 years." This unique gem's value is significantly increased by one crucial fact: it is found in only one location on Earth.
The Unmistakable Properties of Tanzanite
The most striking characteristic of tanzanite is its pleochroism, a fascinating optical property that allows it to display different colors when viewed from various angles. A single stone can reveal captivating shades of blue, violet, and sometimes even a hint of burgundy. The most prized tanzanite gems exhibit a deep, saturated sapphire blue and vibrant violet hue.
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Hardness: On the Mohs hardness scale, tanzanite scores between 6 and 7. This makes it more delicate than harder stones like diamonds and sapphires, requiring careful handling to prevent scratches and chips.
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Color Enhancement: The magnificent blue-violet color you see in most jewelry is the result of a standard and gentle heat treatment. Naturally, the rough stone often appears brownish or yellowish. This heat process is widely accepted in the industry and permanently transforms the stone's color.
Rarity and Value: Why Tanzanite Is a Precious Investment
The core of tanzanite's value lies in its rarity. Unlike other gemstones that are mined in multiple locations around the world, tanzanite is exclusively sourced from a single 8-square-mile area in Tanzania. Geologists predict that this single mine's reserves could be fully depleted within the next 20 to 30 years, making it an incredibly finite and valuable resource. This makes natural tanzanite rarer than diamonds.
The worth of a tanzanite gem is determined by the "4 C's" of gemstone evaluation: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight. The most sought-after pieces are those with a deep, vivid color and high clarity.
Caring for Your Tanzanite Jewelry
Tanzanite jewelry, whether a tanzanite ring, tanzanite necklace, or tanzanite earrings, adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. However, due to its delicate nature, proper care is essential:
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Avoid Impact: Remove your tanzanite jewelry before engaging in physical activities or household chores to protect it from scratches and knocks.
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Cleaning: To clean your tanzanite stone, use a soft brush and warm, soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone.
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Storage: Store your tanzanite jewelry in a separate pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent it from scratching other gems or being scratched itself.
Tanzanite is more than just a beautiful stone; it's a piece of history and a finite treasure. Its unique beauty and compelling story make it a gemstone that deserves a special place in your collection. What's your favorite thing about this stunning gem?