Tanzanite, a rare and exquisite gemstone, has captured the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts and collectors worldwide with its enchanting beauty and unique color. Discovered only in 1967 in Tanzania, East Africa, tanzanite has swiftly risen to fame due to its captivating hues and limited availability. In this article, we will delve into the alluring world of tanzanite, exploring its mesmerizing color, the factors that influence its appearance, and the significance of this gemstone in the world of jewelry.
The Discovery of Tanzanite
Tanzanite’s story began in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, where it was accidentally unearthed by Maasai tribesmen in 1967. The beautiful blue-violet crystals initially puzzled the locals, who had never seen anything like it before. The gemstone quickly caught the attention of the gemological world, and with its debut at Tiffany & Co. in New York, tanzanite’s popularity skyrocketed, making it one of the most sought-after gemstones today.
The Unique Colour of Tanzanite
Blue with Violet Undertones: The most characteristic and desirable color of tanzanite is a mesmerizing blue with violet undertones. This hue showcases a captivating play of color, ranging from deep royal blues to intense violets. The gem’s color is often described as “velvety” or “saturated,” adding to its allure.
Trichroism: One of the most fascinating features of tanzanite is its trichroism, which means it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite typically shows blue, violet, and burgundy hues, creating an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colors that make each gemstone a unique work of art.
Pleochroism: Alongside trichroism, tanzanite also exhibits pleochroism, which means it can show different intensities of color when viewed from different angles. This optical property adds depth and dimension to the gemstone, enhancing its visual appeal.
Factors Influencing Tanzanite’s Color
Several factors influence the color of tanzanite, making each gemstone a truly individual piece of nature’s art. Understanding these factors can help both buyers and sellers appreciate the nuances of tanzanite’s color.
Trace Elements: The primary element responsible for tanzanite’s breathtaking color is vanadium. Even in trace amounts, vanadium plays a crucial role in creating the distinctive blue and violet hues. The exact concentrations of vanadium and other trace elements in the gemstone influence the intensity and shade of its color.
Heat Treatment: It is essential to note that most tanzanite on the market has undergone heat treatment to enhance its color. This process helps to bring out the desirable blue and violet shades that tanzanite is famous for. Natural, unheated tanzanite is exceptionally rare and commands a premium in the market.
Cut and Clarity: The cut and clarity of a tanzanite gemstone also impact its perceived color. A well-cut tanzanite with high clarity will display its color more vividly and uniformly, maximizing its brilliance and beauty.
Grading Tanzanite Color
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has not established a standardized grading system for tanzanite like it has for diamonds. However, the gemstone industry typically considers the following factors when assessing the color of tanzanite:
Hue: The dominant color in a tanzanite gemstone, whether it is blue or violet, determines its primary hue.
Tone: The tone refers to how light or dark the color of the tanzanite appears. Tone is assessed on a scale from light to dark.
Saturation: Saturation measures the intensity of the color in the gemstone. A highly saturated tanzanite will exhibit a more vibrant and vivid color, while lower saturation may result in a paler appearance.
Color Distribution: Trichroism and pleochroism influence the distribution of color within the tanzanite. Gemologists examine how the color appears from different angles to assess its distribution.
The Rarity of Tanzanite
Tanzanite’s captivating beauty is matched only by its scarcity. Unlike many other gemstones, tanzanite is found in only one place on Earth – the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. This limited geographic occurrence, combined with the increasing demand for tanzanite, contributes to its rarity.
Moreover, tanzanite is believed to be a thousand times rarer than diamonds. Experts predict that the existing tanzanite deposits may be exhausted within the next few decades, further enhancing the gem’s allure and making it a prized possession for collectors and investors alike.
Tanzanite in the World of Jewelry
Tanzanite’s striking color and rarity have made it a popular choice for jewelry designers and gemstone connoisseurs. The gemstone is used in various types of jewelry, with some of the most common being:
Tanzanite Rings: Tanzanite rings are particularly sought after for their elegance and uniqueness. Whether as a statement cocktail ring or an exquisite engagement ring, tanzanite adds a touch of sophistication to any piece.
Tanzanite Necklaces: Tanzanite pendants and necklaces are favored for their versatility and ability to complement both casual and formal attire. Solitaire tanzanite necklaces or those surrounded by diamonds are especially popular.
Tanzanite Earrings: Tanzanite earrings come in an array of styles, from simple studs to extravagant chandelier earrings. Due to their trichroism and pleochroism, tanzanite earrings exude an enchanting play of color with every movement.
Tanzanite Bracelets: Though relatively less common, tanzanite bracelets make for a distinctive and eye-catching accessory. The gemstone’s color can be intensified when multiple tanzanites are set together in a bracelet.
Tanzanite’s Metaphysical Properties
Beyond its physical beauty, tanzanite is believed to possess metaphysical properties that add to its appeal. Some of the metaphysical properties associated with tanzanite include:
Spiritual Awakening: Tanzanite is thought to facilitate spiritual growth and awakening. It is said to help individuals connect with their higher consciousness and embrace spiritual insights.
Emotional Healing: Tanzanite is believed to aid in emotional healing by promoting a sense of calm and reducing stress and anxiety. It is often used in meditation practices to enhance relaxation and inner peace.
Communication and Intuition: Tanzanite is associated with enhancing communication skills and intuition. It is believed to promote clear expression and understanding, making it a valuable aid in interpersonal relationships.
Caring for Tanzanite Jewelry
As a relatively soft gemstone (6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale), tanzanite requires gentle care to maintain its brilliance and beauty. Here are some tips for caring for your tanzanite jewelry:
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Tanzanite is sensitive to harsh chemicals, which can damage the gemstone’s color and clarity. Remove your tanzanite jewelry before using cleaning agents or engaging in activities involving chemicals.
Store Separately: When not wearing your tanzanite jewelry, store it separately from other pieces to prevent scratches. Consider using soft pouches or jewelry boxes with individual compartments.
Protect from Impact: Tanzanite can be susceptible to chipping or cracking upon impact. Avoid wearing tanzanite jewelry during activities that may expose it to rough handling.
Cleaning: Clean your tanzanite jewelry regularly with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush. Gently scrub the gemstone and setting to remove any dirt or oils.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tanzanite is a rare and captivating gemstone renowned for its stunning blue-violet color and unique optical properties. Found in only one place on Earth, tanzanite’s scarcity and beauty have made it a highly sought-after gem in the world of jewelry. From rings and necklaces to earrings and bracelets, tanzanite’s enchanting hue complements a wide range of jewelry designs, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any piece.
Whether you are drawn to tanzanite for its alluring color, its spiritual significance, or as an investment in a rare and precious gemstone, caring for this exquisite treasure is essential to preserve its brilliance and ensure its longevity. With proper care and appreciation for its delicate nature, tanzanite jewelry can continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come. So, if you find yourself captivated by the magical allure of tanzanite, indulge in the beauty of this extraordinary gemstone and treasure its magnificence for years to come.
