In the diverse world of gemstones, there are various materials that can sometimes cause confusion due to their names or similarities. Tanzanite quartz is one such example. It’s important to understand exactly what Tanzanite quartz is, its characteristics, how it differs from other gemstones, and its uses in the jewelry industry. In this article, we’ll explore these aspects in detail to give you a comprehensive understanding of this unique gemstone material.
Definition and Basics
What is Tanzanite Quartz?
Tanzanite quartz is a type of quartz that has been treated or enhanced to mimic the appearance of tanzanite. It is not the same as natural tanzanite, which is a variety of the mineral zoisite found only in a specific region near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Instead, Tanzanite quartz is a man-made or treated version that combines the base material of quartz with certain processes to achieve a color and look reminiscent of tanzanite.
It is often used in jewelry as an alternative to natural tanzanite, especially when a more affordable option is desired or when the specific color and aesthetic of tanzanite is sought after but perhaps the cost of the genuine gemstone is prohibitive.
Origin and Production
The base material, quartz, is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. It occurs naturally in many different geological settings and is sourced from various locations around the world. To create Tanzanite quartz, manufacturers start with natural quartz crystals, which are usually colorless or have a very light, natural color.
The transformation into Tanzanite quartz involves treating these quartz crystals through methods like heat treatment or the introduction of certain chemical elements to change their color and optical properties. This process is carefully controlled to achieve the desired blue-violet hues that are characteristic of tanzanite.
Gemological Characteristics
Color
The color of Tanzanite quartz is designed to imitate the beautiful blue-violet colors of natural tanzanite. Through the treatment processes, it can display a range of hues from a light, delicate blue-violet to a deeper, more intense shade. However, the color in Tanzanite quartz might not have the exact same depth or complexity as that of natural tanzanite.
For example, the color in Tanzanite quartz may appear more uniform or have a slightly different undertone. In some cases, it could lack the subtle variations in color that are often seen in natural tanzanite due to its unique formation and the presence of various trace elements in the genuine gemstone.
Hardness
Quartz has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. As Tanzanite quartz is based on quartz, it retains this hardness level. This makes it relatively durable and able to withstand normal wear in jewelry to a good extent. It’s harder than some other gemstones like opals but still softer than traditional precious stones like diamonds (with a hardness of 10) and rubies (around 9).
However, like any gemstone, it’s not completely indestructible, and care should be taken to avoid scratching it against harder materials, especially when wearing jewelry pieces containing Tanzanite quartz.
Clarity
Tanzanite quartz typically has a high level of clarity. Since quartz itself can be found in relatively clear forms, and the treatment processes usually don’t introduce significant impurities or inclusions that would be visible to the naked eye, it often appears quite transparent.
Of course, there may still be some very minor inclusions or internal features that are characteristic of the quartz or that result from the treatment process, but these generally don’t detract from the overall beauty and clarity of the stone when used in jewelry.
Cut
The cut of Tanzanite quartz follows similar principles as for other gemstones. Jewelers use a variety of cuts such as oval, round, emerald, or cushion cuts to enhance its beauty and optical properties. A well-cut Tanzanite quartz will have facets that are properly aligned and proportioned to maximize the reflection and refraction of light, making the color and sparkle more prominent.
Depending on the design of the jewelry piece, different cuts are chosen to bring out the best in the Tanzanite quartz, whether it’s for a ring, pendant, or earrings.
Treatment Methods
Heat Treatment
Heat treatment is a common method used to create Tanzanite quartz. By subjecting the natural quartz crystals to specific temperatures in a controlled environment, the internal structure of the quartz can be altered in a way that changes its color. The heat can cause chemical reactions within the quartz or modify the way light interacts with it to produce the desired blue-violet tones.
For example, heating the quartz to certain temperatures might cause the rearrangement of some of its chemical components or the activation of trace elements that were previously present in a less visible form, resulting in the appearance of colors similar to tanzanite.
Chemical Treatments
In addition to heat treatment, chemical treatments may also be employed. This could involve introducing certain chemical substances into the quartz either through soaking or other processes. These chemicals can interact with the quartz structure to enhance or create the blue-violet color.
However, it’s important to note that these chemical treatments are carefully regulated to ensure that the resulting Tanzanite quartz is safe for use in jewelry and complies with industry standards. The use of harmful or unstable chemicals is avoided to prevent any negative impacts on the wearer or the durability of the gemstone.
Differences from Natural Tanzanite
Geological Origin
Natural tanzanite is formed deep within the Earth’s crust in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania under specific geological conditions over a long period of time. It is a result of a complex combination of heat, pressure, and the presence of certain chemical elements like vanadium and chromium that give it its unique color. Tanzanite quartz, on the other hand, starts with quartz that is sourced from various locations and is then artificially treated to mimic tanzanite’s appearance.
This fundamental difference in origin means that natural tanzanite has a natural rarity and exclusivity that Tanzanite quartz lacks, as quartz is a much more common mineral.
Chemical Composition
Chemically, natural tanzanite is a variety of zoisite and contains elements like calcium, aluminum, silicon, oxygen, along with the trace elements responsible for its color. Tanzanite quartz, while based on quartz (which is silicon dioxide), has a different elemental makeup overall and only resembles tanzanite in appearance due to the treatment processes.
This difference in chemical composition also affects other properties like how light is absorbed and reflected, and it can result in variations in color and other optical characteristics between the two materials.
Market Value and Perception
Natural tanzanite is generally considered a more valuable and prestigious gemstone due to its rarity and unique origin. It commands higher prices, especially for high-quality specimens with excellent color, clarity, and larger carat weights. Tanzanite quartz, being a treated and more common alternative, is typically much more affordable and is seen as a budget-friendly option for those who want the look of tanzanite without the high cost.
In the market, consumers who are knowledgeable about gemstones are usually aware of the difference between the two and make their purchasing decisions based on factors such as budget, desired quality, and the importance they place on having a genuine natural gemstone.
Uses in Jewelry
Popular Jewelry Items
Tanzanite quartz is widely used in a variety of jewelry pieces. In rings, it can be set as a solitaire or combined with other gemstones or decorative elements. For example, a ring with a Tanzanite quartz centerpiece surrounded by smaller cubic zirconia can create a sparkly and elegant look that is both eye-catching and affordable.
Pendants are also a common choice. A simple pendant with a single Tanzanite quartz can add a touch of color and sophistication to an outfit. Earrings made with Tanzanite quartz can range from studs for a more understated look to dangle earrings that show off the gemstone’s color and sparkle with movement.
Design Considerations
Designers often appreciate Tanzanite quartz for its affordability and the ability to create consistent colors and designs. They can use it in larger quantities in elaborate jewelry designs, such as in beadwork or inlay designs, where using natural tanzanite might be cost-prohibitive.
Additionally, because it can be produced in relatively large quantities and has a more predictable appearance compared to natural tanzanite, it allows for more experimentation in jewelry design. Designers can create bold and colorful patterns by combining Tanzanite quartz with different gemstones or metals to achieve unique and stylish looks.
In conclusion, Tanzanite quartz is a treated gemstone material that offers an affordable alternative to natural tanzanite.Whether you choose natural tanzanite or Tanzanite quartz depends on your preferences, budget, and the significance you attach to the rarity and natural origin of gemstones.
Related Topics:
