Tanzanite is a gemstone that has captured the hearts of many jewelry enthusiasts with its captivating and unique colors. One of the most common questions regarding this precious stone is whether it can be purple. In this article, we’ll explore the various aspects related to the color of tanzanite, delving into its natural characteristics, the factors that influence its hue, and how purple fits into the spectrum of its possible colors.
Understanding Tanzanite’s Basics
What is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite. It was discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, which is the only place in the world where it is found. This exclusivity makes it a particularly rare and sought-after gemstone.
Miners extract it from the earth, and it then goes through a series of processes such as cutting and polishing to transform it into the beautiful gemstones that adorn jewelry pieces.
Its Chemical Composition
Chemically, tanzanite contains elements like calcium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen. Trace amounts of other elements, such as vanadium, play a crucial role in determining its color. The specific arrangement of these elements within its crystal structure influences how light interacts with the gemstone, giving rise to its characteristic hues.
The Color Range of Tanzanite
Natural Color Variations
Tanzanite occurs in a range of colors in its natural state. It is typically known for its blue-violet hues, which can vary from a light, almost pastel blue with a hint of violet to a deep, rich blue-violet that is highly prized. However, purple is indeed within the realm of its possible natural colors.
The color is often influenced by the amount and distribution of the trace elements present in the crystal lattice. For example, variations in the concentration of vanadium can cause the color to shift along the blue to purple spectrum.
Color Grading and Descriptions
In the gemstone industry, tanzanite’s color is carefully evaluated and graded. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and other reputable gemological organizations have systems in place to describe its color. Colors are often described in terms of hue, saturation, and tone.
When it comes to purple in tanzanite, a stone with a dominant purple hue might be described as having a certain percentage of violet and red components in its color makeup. A more saturated purple tanzanite will have a vivid and intense color, while one with a lighter tone might appear more delicate and pastel-like.
Factors Affecting Tanzanite’s Color
Geological Formation
The conditions under which tanzanite forms deep within the Earth’s crust have a significant impact on its color. The temperature, pressure, and the availability of specific chemical elements during its formation all contribute to the final color it exhibits.
For instance, if the geological environment had a higher concentration of certain trace elements that favor the development of purple hues during the crystallization process, the resulting tanzanite is more likely to have a prominent purple color.
Heat Treatment
Heat treatment is a common practice in the gemstone industry to enhance or modify the color of tanzanite. Many tanzanites that are mined have a somewhat greenish or brownish undertone in their natural state. By subjecting them to controlled heat treatment, usually at specific temperatures ranging from around 600 to 1000 degrees Celsius, the color can be altered.
In some cases, heat treatment can intensify a purple hue that was already present in the stone or bring out a purple color that was less visible before. This process works by changing the oxidation state of the trace elements within the crystal structure, which in turn affects how light is absorbed and reflected by the gemstone.
Crystal Orientation and Cut
The way a tanzanite crystal is oriented when it’s cut can also influence the perceived color. Different crystal directions have different refractive indices, and depending on how the facets are cut relative to these directions, light can interact with the stone in various ways.
For example, a well-cut tanzanite with facets aligned in a way that maximizes the reflection of light in the purple wavelengths can make the purple color appear more vibrant and dominant. On the other hand, if the cut doesn’t optimize light interaction for the purple hues, the color might seem duller or less prominent.
Purple Tanzanite in Jewelry
Aesthetic Appeal
Purple tanzanite has a unique aesthetic appeal in jewelry. It can add a touch of elegance, mystery, and luxury to any piece. When set in a ring, pendant, or earrings, its purple color can stand out against different metal settings, whether it’s the classic white gold, warm yellow gold, or sleek platinum.
For example, a purple tanzanite set in a halo of diamonds in a white gold ring creates a stunning contrast, with the diamonds enhancing the sparkle and the purple tanzanite serving as a captivating focal point.
Popular Settings and Designs
In jewelry design, purple tanzanite is often used in various settings. A prong setting can showcase the entire gemstone, allowing the purple color to be fully visible from all angles. Channel settings, where multiple tanzanites are set side by side in a groove within the metal, can create a continuous line of purple, adding a bold and colorful statement to a piece.
Bezel settings are also popular for purple tanzanite as they provide a more protected and sleek look, while still allowing the beautiful purple hue to shine through. Designers might incorporate purple tanzanite with other gemstones like amethysts (which also have a purple color but a different appearance) to create interesting color combinations and textures in a piece of jewelry.
Rarity and Value of Purple Tanzanite
Rarity Considerations
Purple tanzanite is relatively rarer compared to some of the more common blue-violet shades. While all tanzanite is scarce due to its limited geographical origin, the specific occurrence of a dominant purple color within the gemstone deposits makes it stand out.
The rarity is influenced by the geological factors mentioned earlier. Areas within the Tanzanian mines where the conditions were just right to produce purple tanzanite are limited, and as a result, finding high-quality, large purple tanzanite stones can be quite challenging.
Market Value
Due to its rarity, purple tanzanite often commands a higher price in the market. The value depends on factors like the size of the stone, its clarity (absence of internal inclusions and external blemishes), and the intensity and quality of the purple color.
A larger, flawless purple tanzanite with a vivid and saturated color will be worth significantly more than a smaller, less clear stone with a lighter or less pure purple hue. In the world of gemstone auctions and high-end jewelry sales, purple tanzanite pieces can attract collectors and enthusiasts willing to pay a premium for their unique beauty.
Identifying and Certifying Purple Tanzanite
Gemological Testing
Gemologists use various tools and techniques to identify and grade purple tanzanite. They start with visual inspection under magnification, looking at the stone’s clarity, cut, and color characteristics. Tools like a loupe or a gemological microscope are commonly employed for this purpose.
Spectroscopic analysis is also crucial. By passing light through the gemstone and analyzing the resulting spectrum, gemologists can determine the specific elements present in the tanzanite and confirm its authenticity as well as assess its color-causing components. This helps in distinguishing natural purple tanzanite from synthetic or treated imitations.
Certification Importance
Reputable gemological certifications, such as those from the GIA, the International Gemological Institute (IGI), or the American Gem Society (AGS), are highly valuable for purple tanzanite. A certificate provides detailed information about the stone’s characteristics, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
When buying or selling purple tanzanite jewelry, having a proper certification gives both the buyer and the seller confidence in the quality and authenticity of the gemstone. It also helps in establishing a fair market value for the piece.
Caring for Purple Tanzanite Jewelry
Cleaning and Maintenance
To keep purple tanzanite jewelry looking its best, regular cleaning is essential. A mild solution of warm water and a small amount of gentle dish soap can be used. Dip a soft, lint-free cloth or a soft-bristled brush (like a baby toothbrush) into the solution and gently clean the gemstone and its setting.
Rinse thoroughly with warm running water to remove any soap residue and then pat dry with a clean towel. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the gemstone’s surface and potentially affect its color.
Storage Precautions
When not wearing purple tanzanite jewelry, store it in a clean, dry place. A jewelry box with individual compartments or soft pouches is ideal to protect it from scratches and exposure to dust or moisture. It’s also advisable to keep it away from other jewelry pieces that might scratch it or cause chemical reactions if they are made of materials that could interact with the tanzanite.
In conclusion, tanzanite can indeed be purple, and its purple variations add a unique and valuable dimension to the world of gemstones. The color is influenced by multiple factors, from its natural geological formation to human-induced processes like heat treatment. Purple tanzanite’s rarity and aesthetic appeal make it a prized choice in jewelry, whether for personal adornment or as a collectible item. By understanding how to identify, care for, and appreciate purple tanzanite, both jewelry lovers and collectors can fully enjoy the beauty and value that this remarkable gemstone has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to its captivating color for a special piece of jewelry or intrigued by its rarity in the gemstone market, purple tanzanite continues to hold a special place in the world of precious stones.
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