Tanzanite: The Rare Blue Gemstone with a Unique Story
If you're fascinated by gemstones, you've probably heard about tanzanite—an extraordinary gem known for its stunning blue-violet color. But what makes tanzanite so special isn't just its beauty; it's also one of the rarest gemstones in the world, with a story rooted in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, where it was first discovered.
The Discovery of Tanzanite
Unlike other gemstones that have been known for centuries, tanzanite is a fairly recent discovery. It was first unearthed in 1967 by a Masai tribesman who stumbled upon a group of brilliant blue crystals in northern Tanzania. Initially, these stones were mistaken for sapphires, but further analysis revealed they were an entirely new gemstone, now known as tanzanite, named after its country of origin. Tiffany & Co. helped introduce tanzanite to the world, making it one of the most sought-after gems of modern times.
Why Is Tanzanite So Special?
Tanzanite is prized for its vibrant color, which can range from a deep blue to a more violet hue, depending on the angle you view it. This phenomenon, called pleochroism, makes the gem even more captivating, as the colors seem to shift when the stone is moved. The finest tanzanite stones are usually a rich blue with a slight violet tint—colors that rival even the most valuable sapphires.
But beyond its appearance, tanzanite is incredibly rare. In fact, it’s only found in one small area of the world: the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. Experts predict that the supply of tanzanite could be depleted within the next few decades, adding to its allure and making it a gemstone that’s as much an investment as it is a work of art.
Tanzanite in Jewelry
Tanzanite is often used in high-end jewelry, particularly in rings, necklaces, and earrings. Due to its relative softness (it ranks about 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale), it’s more suitable for pieces that won’t be subjected to daily wear and tear, like pendants and earrings. For rings, it’s often set in protective settings to keep it safe from scratches.
The gem's unique color makes it a favorite for both classic and modern designs, and it pairs beautifully with white gold, platinum, or even yellow gold for a more vintage feel. Tanzanite is also the birthstone for December, so it’s a thoughtful gift for those born during that month.
Caring for Tanzanite
Since tanzanite is softer than other gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, it requires special care. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or prolonged exposure to water. Cleaning should be done gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water—steer clear of ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone.
Investing in Tanzanite
Because of its rarity and the fact that it’s mined in only one location, tanzanite has become a popular gemstone for collectors and investors. Its value has steadily increased over the years, and with limited future supply, it’s likely to become even more valuable. When purchasing tanzanite, look for stones with vivid color and minimal inclusions—these will hold their value the best over time.
Thoughts
Tanzanite is a gemstone unlike any other. Its unique color, rarity, and history make it one of the most desirable stones on the market today. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast or someone looking for a meaningful piece of jewellery, tanzanite is a gem that stands out—not just for its beauty but for the incredible story it tells.
Birthstone
Tanzanite, as the December birthstone, is one of the most captivating gemstones available, known for its vibrant blue-violet hues. While relatively new to the world of gemstones, it has quickly become a favorite for both collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Its deep blue to violet shades can shift depending on the lighting and angle, a unique property called pleochroism. This dynamic play of colors gives tanzanite an extraordinary charm, setting it apart from other gems.
As a December birthstone, tanzanite is often associated with qualities like balance, harmony, and transformation. Its deep blue color is thought to promote spiritual calm, while its violet tones are linked to creative energy.
Substitute Stones for Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone (6.5-7 on the Mohs scale), which means some people may prefer harder alternatives for everyday wear, particularly in rings or bracelets. If you're looking for substitutes that offer a similar color or feel but with greater durability or accessibility, here are a few great options:
1. Sapphire:
- Colour: Blue sapphires are often the closest in appearance to tanzanite, though sapphires can come in a range of colors.
- Durability: Sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, making it ideal for jewelry pieces that are worn frequently, such as engagement rings.
- Value: While some fine sapphires can be quite expensive, they are typically more widely available than tanzanite, making them an excellent alternative.
2. Iolite:
- Colour: iolite shares a similar blue-violet hue with tanzanite and also exhibits pleochroism, displaying different colors when viewed from different angles.
- Durability: iolite ranks around 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, slightly harder than tanzanite, but it still requires care.
- Affordability: iolite is generally more affordable than tanzanite, making it a budget-friendly alternative.
3. Blue Spinel:
- Color: Blue spinels can mimic the deep blue tones of tanzanite but lack the violet hue. However, spinel is known for its intense, saturated color.
- Durability: With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, blue spinel is an excellent choice for everyday wear.
- Rarity: While blue spinels are rare, they are often more affordable than tanzanite, making them a good substitute if you're looking for a high-quality gem.
4. Amethyst:
- Color: Amethyst, with its violet and purple hues, is a good alternative if you're more drawn to the violet tones of tanzanite.
- Durability: Ranking at 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is comparable in hardness to tanzanite but still requires careful handling.
- Affordability: Amethyst is widely available and much more affordable, making it a versatile substitute.
Conclusion
Tanzanite is a breathtaking gemstone, but its rarity and softness mean it may not be suitable for every type of jewelry or budget. Thankfully, alternatives like sapphire, iolite, blue spinel, and amethyst offer similar beauty and color at varying price points and levels of durability. Whether you're choosing tanzanite for its symbolic connection to December or for its striking colors, it's a gemstone that stands out for both its natural allure and its significance.
