Tanzanite gemstone , one of the most beautiful gemstones, is known for its rich blue-purple hues and rarity. It was recently discovered in 1967 and is named after the East African country where it was found. The gem quickly attracted international attention, being highly prized for its unique color and rarity. In this blog, we will explore the different varieties of tanzanite, their origins, mining, history and what gives this gem such great value.
Table of Tanzanite gemstone Varieties (A to Z)
| Type | Color | Origin | Mine | Year Discovered | Details |
| Blue Tanzanite | Deep Blue | Tanzania | Merelani Hills | 1967 | The most famous variety, characterized by its intense blue hues. |
| Violet Tanzanite | Violet/Blue | Tanzania | Merelani Hills | 1967 | Shifts between violet and blue depending on light. |
| Fancy Tanzanite | Pink, Green, Yellow | Tanzania | Merelani Hills | 1967 | Rare colors that occur naturally, though they can be heat-treated to enhance the shades. |
| Color-Change Tanzanite | Blue to Violet | Tanzania | Merelani Hills | 1967 | Displays pleochroism, where the stone changes colors based on viewing angles and light. |
The History and Origins of Tanzanite gemstone
Tanzanite’s discovery is credited to a Maasai tribesman in 1967, who stumbled upon the vibrant blue crystals in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. At first, the gemstone was mistakenly identified as sapphire due to its striking color, but upon further examination, it was confirmed to be a new variety of zoisite. Recognizing the stone’s potential, the famous jeweler Tiffany & Co. named it “Tanzanite” after its country of origin, Tanzania(M.S. Rau).
The gemstone is mined exclusively in a small area of about 4 kilometers wide and 2 kilometers long in the Merelani Hills. With no other known deposits globally, Tanzanite is considered a thousand times rarer than diamonds(M.S. Rau). Given its limited availability, Tanzanite’s scarcity adds to its immense value.
Types of Tanzanite gemstone and Their Unique Features
Blue Tanzanite
This is the most recognizable form of Tanzanite, celebrated for its deep, vibrant blue hue. Its striking color is achieved through heat treatment, making it the most popular and valuable variety.
Violet Tanzanite
Tanzanite displays pleochroism, which means it can show different colors when viewed from different angles. Violet Tanzanite shows more of a purplish hue, especially under incandescent light.
Fancy Tanzanite
This term refers to the rare and naturally occurring colors in Tanzanite, such as pink, green, and yellow. These are exceedingly rare and command higher prices in the market.
Color-Change Tanzanite
Some Tanzanites shift between blue and violet or even display reddish hues depending on the lighting. This property makes Tanzanite unique among gemstones and adds to its allure.
Why Tanzanite gemstone is So Valuable
- Rarity: Found only in one small region of Tanzania, the likelihood of discovering Tanzanite elsewhere is considered extremely low. This single-source nature dramatically increases its market value, with experts predicting that the current mines could be depleted within the next few decades(M.S. Rau).
- Exceptional Color: The pleochroic effect that Tanzanite exhibits—showing different colors depending on the angle of the light—adds a captivating element to the stone. Most Tanzanite on the market is heat-treated to enhance these colors, making the blue and violet hues even more prominent.
- Cultural Significance: The Maasai people of Tanzania traditionally believed that Tanzanite symbolizes the birth of new life. As a result, the gemstone is often gifted during childbirth or other significant life events in the region(M.S. Rau).
- Jewelry Appeal: Its beauty and rarity make Tanzanite a favored gemstone for high-end jewelry. It is frequently used in rings, necklaces, and earrings, and its popularity only continues to grow as supplies become scarcer.
Tanzanite gemstone Mines and the Mining Process
Tanzanite is extracted from deep within the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. The mining area is divided into several blocks, with some sections operated by large mining corporations and others managed by smaller, local miners. TanzaniteOne is one of the largest companies operating in the area, leasing a portion of the mines and focusing on sustainable extraction methods(M.S. Rau).
The gemstone is typically found as brownish crystals that turn into the vibrant blue and violet colors after heating at about 600 degrees Celsius. This heat treatment process enhances the stone’s natural beauty, making Tanzanite even more desirable in the gemstone market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Tanzanite mined?
Tanzanite is mined exclusively in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in northern Tanzania.
2. What makes Tanzanite rare?
Tanzanite is considered one of the rarest gemstones because it is found in only one place on Earth—Tanzania. The limited mining area means supplies may eventually run out, adding to its rarity.
3. Is Tanzanite always heat-treated?
Most Tanzanite gemstones are heat-treated to enhance their blue and violet colors. However, untreated Tanzanites are also available, though they tend to have a brownish hue before treatment.
4. What is pleochroism in Tanzanite?
Pleochroism is the effect where Tanzanite displays different colors when viewed from different angles. In Tanzanite, this can manifest as blue, violet, or even reddish tones.
5. How should Tanzanite jewelry be cared for?
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, with a rating of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It should be protected from scratches and stored carefully to avoid damage. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme heat.
Conclusion
Tanzanite is not just a gem, it is an element of Tanzanian heritage and a symbol of rarity and beauty. Its deep, vivid colors and fascinating pleochroic effect make it one of the most sought after gems in the world. With limited reserves and a single source, the value of tanzanite is expected to increase, making it a valuable gem for collectors and jewelers.
For further detailed insights into Tanzanite’s history, mining processes, and market value, reliable sources such as GIA and Tanzanite Experience provide in-depth information
