Tanzanite, a captivating gemstone cherished for its striking blue and violet hues, has captivated gem enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Its alluring shades of blue, purple, and violet have made it a symbol of elegance and luxury. However, not all tanzanite is created equal, and some colors demand a significantly higher price. In this article, we will explore the various colors of tanzanite, their rarity, and the factors that determine which color is the most expensive. From the mesmerizing blues to enchanting violets, let’s dive into the fascinating world of tanzanite.
The Tanzanite Spectrum: A Kaleidoscope of Colors
Tanzanite is renowned for its unique and captivating colors, ranging from deep blue to vibrant violet. These colors are created by the presence of trace elements within the gemstone, most notably vanadium. The primary colors of tanzanite, in order of rarity and price, are blue, violet-blue, and pure violet. To understand why certain colors are more expensive than others, let’s delve into the world of tanzanite’s colors and their characteristics.
Blue Tanzanite: The Classic and Sought-After Hue
One of the most iconic colors of tanzanite is the deep blue shade. This classic blue tanzanite is reminiscent of sapphires, and its desirability is unsurpassed. The “what color of tanzanite is most expensive” query often leads to the resounding answer: blue. This is primarily because blue tanzanite is the most sought-after and valuable color.
Blue tanzanite showcases a striking combination of violet and blue hues that can be either intense or light. The more saturated the blue and violet hues, the more valuable the tanzanite becomes. Deep blue tanzanite gemstones with minimal violet undertones are the most prized, as they closely resemble the iconic blue sapphire but with a unique twist. These gemstones typically exhibit a rich velvety blue color, often described as “peacock blue.” They exude an aura of elegance and luxury, making them highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The rarity of blue tanzanite is another factor that contributes to its high price. Among the various colors, blue tanzanite is the scarcest. The gem’s geological formation and the specific conditions required for this stunning blue hue make it a rare find. Blue tanzanite can demand premium prices due to its scarcity and exceptional beauty.
Violet-Blue Tanzanite: A Harmonious Blend
Violet-blue tanzanite is another sought-after color in the world of tanzanite. This variety exhibits a beautiful blend of blue and violet hues, with a more prominent blue undertone than pure violet tanzanite. While it is not as rare as blue tanzanite, its allure is undeniable.
The violet-blue tanzanite is often described as possessing a mesmerizing play of colors, with hints of violet intertwined with a captivating blue background. These gemstones are highly valued for their harmonious and appealing appearance. Collectors and jewelry enthusiasts appreciate the unique balance of colors that violet-blue tanzanite offers.
The demand for violet-blue tanzanite has driven its market value higher than some other tanzanite colors, but it typically remains more affordable than the coveted deep blue variety. The value of violet-blue tanzanite can vary based on factors such as size, clarity, and saturation, but it is a popular choice for those who desire the elegance of tanzanite with a slightly different twist.
Pure Violet Tanzanite: The Rarest of Them All
When it comes to tanzanite colors, pure violet is the most enigmatic and sought-after of all. This stunning variety of tanzanite is characterized by a rich, uniform violet hue, without any significant blue undertones. Pure violet tanzanite is exceptionally rare and, as such, commands the highest prices within the tanzanite market.
The pure violet tanzanite gemstones display a deep and regal violet color that is reminiscent of amethyst, but with the added allure of tanzanite’s unique pleochroism, which allows it to exhibit different colors from different angles. The scarcity of pure violet tanzanite, coupled with its captivating color, makes it a true collector’s item and a symbol of rarity and luxury.
Due to the extreme rarity of pure violet tanzanite, it is often seen as a wise investment for those looking to acquire a gemstone of lasting value. The deep, unadulterated violet hue of these gemstones is truly captivating and stands out in any jewelry setting. As a result, pure violet tanzanite consistently fetches top prices in the market.
Factors Influencing Tanzanite’s Price
Beyond the color of tanzanite, several factors come into play when determining the price of a tanzanite gemstone. Understanding these factors is crucial for both collectors and consumers seeking to make an informed purchase:
Size: The size of a tanzanite gemstone significantly impacts its price. Larger stones are rarer and, therefore, more expensive per carat. Small tanzanite gemstones are more readily available and affordable.
Clarity: The clarity of a tanzanite gemstone is a critical factor. Stones with fewer inclusions or imperfections are considered more valuable. Inclusions can affect the gem’s brilliance and overall visual appeal.
Cut: The quality of the cut greatly influences a tanzanite’s beauty. A well-cut tanzanite will maximize its color and brilliance, while a poorly cut stone may appear lackluster. Expert craftsmanship in cutting can enhance the gem’s value.
Treatments: Most tanzanite gemstones undergo heat treatment to improve their color and clarity. However, any other treatments or enhancements, such as coatings or irradiation, can impact a gemstone’s value. Natural, untreated tanzanite is typically the most prized.
Origin: Tanzanite from the primary deposit in Merelani, Tanzania, is often considered more desirable and valuable than stones from secondary deposits. Some collectors may pay a premium for tanzanite with a known and reputable origin.
Market Trends: The current market conditions and trends can also influence the price of tanzanite. Fluctuations in supply and demand, as well as changes in consumer preferences, can impact the gem’s value.
Rarity: As mentioned earlier, the rarity of certain colors, such as pure violet tanzanite, can drive up their prices. Collectors often seek out the rarest and most unique tanzanite gemstones, willing to pay a premium for their distinctiveness.
The Verdict: Tanzanite’s Most Expensive Color
In conclusion, the answer to the question “what color of tanzanite is most expensive” is unequivocal: pure violet tanzanite holds the title of the most expensive and rarest color within the tanzanite spectrum. Its deep and uniform violet hue, combined with its scarcity, makes it a true collector’s gemstone and a symbol of luxury and elegance.
While pure violet tanzanite reigns supreme in terms of price, blue tanzanite is the most sought-after and valuable color among enthusiasts. Its resemblance to sapphires and its captivating blue and violet hues contribute to its high market value. Violet-blue tanzanite, with its harmonious blend of colors, also maintains a strong following in the market.
Ultimately, the choice of tanzanite color comes down to personal preference, budget, and the specific qualities one values in a gemstone. Whether you opt for the regal pure violet, the classic blue, or the harmonious violet-blue, tanzanite offers a world of elegance and beauty waiting to be explored and cherished.
As the tanzanite market continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the allure of this unique gemstone will endure, and its value will persist, making it a gem of timeless elegance and enduring investment potential.
