Colors of Tanzanite and Its Origins
Tanzanite is celebrated for its exquisite range of blue to violet hues, from soft lavender to intense, saturated indigo. Its signature color is largely due to heat treatment, which transforms naturally brownish zoisite into the vibrant blue-violet shades. A remarkable feature of tanzanite is its strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors—blue, violet, and even flashes of red—when viewed from different angles. This rare gemstone was discovered relatively recently in 1967 and is found exclusively in a small mining area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, making its origin as unique as its color.
Taking Care of your Tanzanite Jewelry
Caring for your exquisite Tanzanite jewelry requires special attention to preserve its vibrant beauty. Clean tanzanite only with warm, soapy water and a very soft brush, rinsing thoroughly and drying with a lint-free cloth. Due to its moderate hardness (6.5 on the Mohs scale) and cleavage, avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and sudden temperature changes, which can cause damage. Always store your tanzanite pieces separately in a soft pouch to prevent scratches, and remove them before engaging in any strenuous activities or exposure to harsh chemicals.
Understanding the Pricing of Tanzanite's
Understanding the pricing of Tanzanite is largely driven by its unique rarity and exceptional color. As a single-source gemstone, found only in Tanzania, its limited supply inherently contributes to its value. The most prized tanzanite displays a vivid, intense blue-violet hue with strong saturation, often referred to as 'AAA' quality, commanding the highest prices. Clarity and precise cutting to maximize its pleochroism also significantly impact value. Larger tanzanite stones are considerably rarer than smaller ones, leading to a substantial increase in price per carat.
Tanzanite Gemstone Meaning
Tanzanite is a gemstone often associated with spiritual exploration and higher consciousness due to its vibrant blue-violet hues. It's believed to facilitate communication, both verbally and intuitively, helping one to express ideas and thoughts more clearly. Many also attribute properties of transformation and enlightenment to Tanzanite, guiding its wearer towards spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of themselves. Its unique color-shifting nature is sometimes seen as a symbol of adaptability and embracing change.
