Tanzanite comes from the mineral zoisite with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH). It is a calcium aluminum hydroxy silicate and features a purple-violet color. Tanzanite stone is a rare gem that has only one source of origin, which is Tanzania. It is one of the most sought-after gemstones, and it is more precious than diamonds. It accounts for higher prices. Tanzanite is used in all jewelry forms, such as earrings, pendants, rings, and bracelets. They make the best heirloom jewelry that holds high investment value in the gemstone marketplace.
Tanzanite Properties
Mineral Variety: Zoisite
Chemical Formula : Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)
Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic
Color: Blue Violet
Hardness: 6.5
Luster: Vitreous
Refractive Index: 1.69-1.70
Specific Gravity: 3.10-3.38
Origin: Tanzania
About
Tanzanite stones are rare and found in only one place, which is Mount Kilimanjaro in Arusha, Tanzania. It was discovered in 1967 by local herders of this place, and later, it was named by Tiffany and Company. These zoisites are compared with sapphires in terms of colors and hardness, but both are different in many ways. They come from different mineral families and have various shades of color. Moreover, tanzanite is fairly less hard and durable than sapphires. But still, it can be worn in all forms of jewelry. This gemstone is stable under normal wearing conditions.
Benefits
This beautiful gemstone is the birthstone for December and also the stone to celebrate the 24th wedding anniversary. Tanzanite meaning is associated with tranquility and mental clarity. It is a strong healer and is believed to strengthen the immune system and balance the mind, body, and soul. This December gemstone is known to remove obstacles in life. So those who are facing challenges in various aspects of their life such as career, relationship, or health. It is an emotional healer that protects the wearer from negative energies, anxiety, and stress.
Who can Wear
Tanzanite birthstone month is December, and individuals born in it can wear this gem. From an astrological point of view, it is the lucky stone for zodiacs such as Sagittarius, Pisces, and Aries. Tanzanite gemstone is perfect for those seeking to improve their communication skills. Keeping this stone in your pocket can help you grow in your career. Individuals in the creative field can benefit from this stone as it promotes imagination and innovation. For those who are going through emotional imbalances in life, this stone acts as a powerful gem in drawing off negative energy. Tanzanite and diamond engagement rings are an attractive choice for modern couples who want to express their love uniquely. This stone signifies love and commitment.
How to Wear
Tanzanite blue and violet hues make a perfect fashion statement and are also a gem for spiritual upliftment. Wearing it in the middle finger of the right hand activates the third eye chakra. Unblocking this energy center enhances your concentration power and brings clarity to your thoughts. Wearing this gemstone as a pendant stimulates the throat chakra. You can either wear it in platinum or gold. Doing so enhances your communication skills. Wear it as a bracelet to add positivity all day. If you are looking for high-end jewelry, white gold, and platinum compliments the tanzanite blue to create a striking contrast. This gem, as a center stone surrounded by other precious gemstones like diamonds and emeralds, makes a stylish accessory.
Quality and Price
Tanzanite price starts from US$700 to US$ 5,500 per carat and can extend even more. It depends upon the 4C’s, which are as follows:
Color: Tanzanite color is one of the major factors in determining its quality and price. This is further categorized into three parts: hue, saturation, and tone. Hue is the color of the stone, and this zoisite features an impressive blue-violet hue. What gives the color to the gem is the presence of a trace element called vanadium. The more intense this hue is, the higher the quality and price. Lighter blues or purple tones are considered less valuable. The interesting aspect of this tanzanite stone is that it displays pleochroism. This is a unique phenomenon exhibited by a few of the gems. It means the display of three different colors at different angles (blue, red, and purple in the case of the December birthstone).
Clarity: High-quality stones are those with captivating blue-violet color and transparency. Crystal, needles, and feathers are some of the common inclusions in this gem. These gems are categorized as Type 1 by the GIA system. VVS grades of stones are flawless and command a high price. These gems are generally heat-treated at 700 degrees Celsius. This is because they feature a brownish tint, which is removed only through treatment.
Cut: They can be cut in various shapes; cushion, oval, and trillion cuts are most common. The cutting process needs to be done very carefully, keeping the phenomenon of pleochroism in mind. Cutting through the angle allows this property to be visible clearly. A precise cut that retains maximum color and weight accounts for the higher price.
Carat Weight: Tanzanites above 3 carat weight are rare to find. High-carat weight stones with bright color, cut, and clarity are even rarer than diamonds and thus command a great price in the marketplace. This gem continues to be a high investment owing to its scarcity.