Article: All about Tanzanite: a magnificent blue stone
All about Tanzanite: a magnificent blue stone
Tanzanite: a blue treasure from the lands of tanzania
Tanzanite is a fascinating gemstone, not only for its exceptional beauty, but also for its unique history and rarity. Discovered relatively recently, in 1967, this gem comes exclusively from one place on Earth: the Merelani Hills in Tanzania, close to the majestic Kilimanjaro. This jewel, with its hypnotic reflections of blue and violet, quickly conquered the world, becoming one of the most sought-after gems for jewelry lovers and investors alike.
The history of tanzanite
The story of tanzanite begins in a rather surprising way. It was after a bushfire on Maasai land that geologists and prospectors discovered these brownish stones which, after being heated to around 500°C, revealed a deep blue glow. This quasi-magical transformation is the result of tanzanite's chemical composition, which changes color when subjected to high heat.
Impressed by this new discovery, merchants at Tiffany & Co, the famous American jewelry house, were among the first to recognize its potential. In 1968, Tiffany launched a worldwide campaign to promote this rare stone as "tanzanite", naming it in honor of its country of origin. Thanks to this strategic introduction to the market, tanzanite quickly established itself as a must-have gem in the world of jewelry.
Tanzanite's characteristics and properties
Tanzanite is particularly appreciated for its unique color, a bewitching blend of deep blue and violet. This remarkable hue is the result of the stone's specific chemical composition, mainly composed of zoïsite. Tanzanite's color can vary depending on the angle from which it is viewed, a phenomenon known as pleochroism. Depending on the light and the size of the stone, it can reveal shades ranging from sapphire blue to intense violet, with slightly reddish reflections.
It's important to note that the intense, saturated color often associated with high-quality tanzanite is often achieved through heat treatment. This process, which mimics the natural conditions under which the stone changes color, is widely accepted in the gem trade.
Here are some key facts about tanzanite:
- Hardness: On the Mohs scale, tanzanite has a hardness of 6.5 to 7, which means it is more fragile than stones like sapphire or diamond. Consequently, it requires special care to avoid scratches or shocks.
- Rarity: Tanzanite is around 1,000 times rarer than diamond. This rarity is due to the fact that the Merelani deposit is the only one in the world to produce this stone, and it has become increasingly difficult to extract quality tanzanite over the years.
- Pleochroism: Depending on the viewing angle, tanzanite can appear blue, violet, or even have shades of red and yellow. This phenomenon makes each stone unique.
The market value of tanzanite
Tanzanite is prized not only for its beauty, but also for its growing value. Since its discovery, the price of tanzanite has risen steadily, mainly due to the stone's rarity and growing demand. Experts predict that the Merelani deposit could be depleted within a few decades, further increasing the stone's value.
The value of tanzanite depends on several criteria:
- Color: The more intense the hue, the more precious the stone. Deep-blue tanzanites, often compared to sapphires, are the most sought-after.
- Size and purity: As with any gem, a larger stone with no visible inclusions will be worth more.
- The cut: A careful cut can maximize tanzanite's pleochroism and highlight its various shades.
Some investors see tanzanite as an attractive opportunity, given that its price could rise significantly as the deposit is depleted. As the saying goes, "scarcity is everything". However, it's important to ensure that the stones are genuine and ethically sourced, given the sometimes controversial mining operations in Tanzania.
Tanzanite in lithotherapy
In lithotherapy, tanzanite is renowned for its exceptional virtues. It is often associated with regeneration, both physically and spiritually. It is said to have healing properties for the skin, promoting a firmer, more radiant appearance. But beyond its physical benefits, it is on a spiritual level that tanzanite particularly stands out.
This stone is considered one of the most powerful for raising consciousness and promoting spiritual awakening. It is said to help connect the wearer to higher levels of wisdom, develop intuition and promote deep meditation. Tanzanite is therefore ideal for those seeking to strengthen their spirituality and find inner peace.
Tanzanite as a birthstone and symbolic gift
Tanzanite is the birthstone of December, making it an ideal gift choice for those born at this time of year. It is also the symbolic stone of the 24th wedding anniversary, representing longevity, the depth of emotional ties and the timeless beauty of love.
Giving a tanzanite is a gesture that goes far beyond aesthetics. It is a symbol of transformation, peace and regeneration. Whether it's a pendant, a ring or earrings, a piece of jewelry set with tanzanite is a gift that combines both beauty and profound meaning.
If you're interested in the virtues of birthstones, we suggest you read our article here.
How to care for and wear tanzanite
Given tanzanite's relative fragility compared to other gems, it's essential to care for this precious stone to preserve its beauty over the years. Here are a few practical tips for tanzanite care:- Avoid shocks and scratches: Although resistant, tanzanite can be damaged if struck or rubbed against hard surfaces. We recommend removing it before any strenuous physical activity or when handling heavy objects.
- Gentle cleaning: Use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to clean your tanzanite. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, which could damage the stone.
- Safe storage: Store your tanzanite jewelry separately to avoid scratches with other stones or metals. Use a velvet pouch or padded jewelry box.
