Tanzanites are a remarkable type of gemstone that have captured the attention of the jewelry world with their unique beauty and characteristics. In this article, we’ll explore various aspects of tanzanites to get a comprehensive understanding of what tanzanites truly are.
Discovery and Origin
The Discovery Story
Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It was a serendipitous find by a Maasai tribesman who stumbled upon these beautiful blue-violet crystals while herding his cattle. This discovery soon caught the attention of the gemstone industry and began to make waves in the market.
Since then, the region has been the sole source of tanzanites in the world, making them a truly unique gemstone from a geographical perspective.
Geological Origin
Tanzanites are a variety of the mineral zoisite. They form under specific geological conditions deep within the Earth’s crust in the Tanzanian region. The area is part of the East African Rift System, where tectonic forces have played a crucial role in creating the right environment for their formation.
The combination of heat, pressure, and the presence of certain chemical elements like vanadium and chromium are essential for tanzanites to crystallize within the host rocks, which are mainly metamorphic rocks such as amphibolites and schists.
Gemological Characteristics
Color
One of the most striking features of tanzanites is their color. They are renowned for their blue-violet hues that can range from a light, almost pastel shade to a deep, rich, and intense color. The color is a result of trace elements present in the crystal structure. Vanadium is a key element that imparts the blue and violet tones, while chromium can sometimes contribute to a slightly greenish tint in some specimens.
Heat treatment is often applied to enhance or modify the color of tanzanites. By subjecting them to controlled heating processes, usually between 600 to 1000 degrees Celsius, the color can be improved, making it more vivid and removing any unwanted undertones.
Hardness
Tanzanites have a hardness of around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This means they are moderately hard and can withstand normal wear in jewelry to an extent. However, they are softer than some of the more traditional gemstones like diamonds (with a hardness of 10), rubies (around 9), and emeralds (around 7.5 to 8). So, proper care is needed to avoid scratches when wearing tanzanite jewelry.
Clarity
Like many gemstones, tanzanites can have internal inclusions. These are small flaws or impurities within the crystal that can affect the clarity of the stone. The fewer the inclusions, the higher the clarity grade and the more valuable the tanzanite. However, even with some inclusions, tanzanites can still display their beautiful color and remain quite attractive in jewelry pieces.
Gemologists use magnification tools like loupes or gemological microscopes to assess the clarity of tanzanites and grade them accordingly.
Cut
The cut of a tanzanite plays a crucial role in enhancing its beauty. A well-cut tanzanite will allow light to enter and reflect in a way that maximizes its brilliance and color display. Different cuts, such as the oval, round, emerald, or cushion cut, are used depending on the desired aesthetic and the shape of the rough crystal.
For example, an oval cut can elongate the appearance of the stone and make it look more elegant, while a cushion cut gives it a softer, more romantic look. The cutter’s skill in achieving the right proportions and faceting is vital for bringing out the best in a tanzanite.
Types of Tanzanites
Based on Color Variations
There are different types of tanzanites based on their color variations. Some have a dominant blue hue with just a hint of violet, while others are more violet-leaning. There are also tanzanites that might have a stronger influence of the greenish tint due to higher levels of chromium.
The most sought-after are those with a deep and pure blue-violet color that is evenly distributed throughout the stone. These are considered of higher quality and are more valuable in the market.
Based on Size and Quality
Tanzanites can vary greatly in size. Smaller ones might be used in delicate jewelry pieces like earrings or pendants, while larger tanzanites can be the centerpiece of a statement ring or a necklace. The quality, determined by factors like color, clarity, and cut, also differentiates them.
High-quality tanzanites with excellent color, few inclusions, and a good cut are rarer and command higher prices. In contrast, lower-quality tanzanites with visible inclusions and less intense colors are more common and are often used in more budget-friendly jewelry designs.
Uses in Jewelry
Engagement Rings
Tanzanites have become a popular choice for engagement rings in recent years. Their unique color sets them apart from the more traditional diamond or sapphire options. A tanzanite engagement ring can make a bold and romantic statement, with the blue-violet gemstone symbolizing something special and unique between the couple.
They can be set in various ways, such as in a solitaire setting to showcase the stone on its own or in a halo setting surrounded by smaller diamonds to enhance its brilliance and make it appear larger.
Pendants and Necklaces
Pendants and necklaces featuring tanzanites are also quite common. A single tanzanite pendant can be a simple yet elegant piece of jewelry, or multiple tanzanites can be strung together to create a more elaborate design. The color of the tanzanites can be complemented by different metal chains, like white gold for a cool and modern look or yellow gold for a warmer, more classic appearance.
Earrings
Tanzanite earrings are a great way to add a touch of glamour and color to an outfit. They can be in the form of studs for a more understated look or dangle earrings for a more dramatic effect. The light-catching properties of tanzanites make them especially appealing when worn as earrings, as they sparkle and show off their beautiful color with every movement.
Bracelets
In bracelets, tanzanites can be set individually or in a cluster pattern. A bracelet with tanzanites interspersed with other gemstones or with a decorative metal design can be a luxurious and eye-catching accessory. They can be designed for daily wear or for special occasions, depending on the style and quality of the tanzanites used.
Market Value and Pricing
Factors Affecting Price
The price of tanzanites is influenced by several factors. Size is an important one, as larger tanzanites are rarer and thus more expensive. The quality, including color, clarity, and cut, also plays a significant role. A tanzanite with a deep, vivid color, excellent clarity, and a well-executed cut will command a higher price than one with inferior characteristics.
Additionally, market demand and trends can impact the price. If tanzanites are particularly in fashion or there is a high demand from collectors, the prices can increase accordingly.
Price Ranges
Small tanzanites of lower quality might be available for a few tens or hundreds of dollars, depending on their specific attributes. However, larger, high-quality tanzanites can cost thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. For example, a one-carat tanzanite with average quality might sell for a few hundred dollars, while a three-carat tanzanite with a top-notch color and clarity could fetch several thousand dollars.
Caring for Tanzanite Jewelry
Cleaning
To keep 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 tanzanite’s surface or affect its color.
Storage
When not wearing 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.
Avoiding Damage
Tanzanites are moderately hard but can still be scratched or damaged, so it’s important to remove jewelry when engaging in activities that might expose it to rough handling or harsh chemicals. For example, take off your tanzanite ring before doing dishes, gardening, or swimming to prevent any potential harm.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
Lack of Traditional Symbolism
Unlike some other gemstones like diamonds, which are strongly associated with love and commitment, or rubies, which have historical connotations of power and passion in many cultures, tanzanites don’t have a long-established set of symbolic meanings.
However, in modern times, they are often seen as a symbol of uniqueness and beauty, representing something special and rare due to their exclusive origin in Tanzania.
Cultural Perceptions
In Tanzania, of course, tanzanites hold a special place as a natural resource that brings economic benefits to the country. They are also becoming more recognized worldwide as a gemstone that adds a touch of luxury and elegance to any jewelry piece. As more people discover and appreciate their beauty, their cultural significance is gradually growing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tanzanites are a captivating gemstone with a unique origin, beautiful gemological characteristics, and a wide range of uses in jewelry. Their distinct color, moderate hardness, and various qualities make them both a valuable addition to the jewelry market and a favorite among those who seek something different and elegant. Whether you’re looking at them from a gemological perspective, considering their value in the market, or simply admiring their beauty in a piece of jewelry, tanzanites continue to hold a special place in the world of precious stones. By understanding what they are and how to care for them, you can fully appreciate and enjoy these remarkable gemstones for years to come.
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