Tanzanite is a gemstone that has captured the hearts of many in the jewelry world with its captivating blue-violet hues. When it comes to grading tanzanite, the term “AAA” is often used, but what exactly does it mean? In this article, we’ll explore in detail what AAA Tanzanite is, looking at its characteristics, how it’s graded, its quality aspects, and its significance in the market and jewelry industry.
Understanding Gemstone Grading
The Concept of Grading
Gemstone grading is a system used to assess the quality of gemstones. It helps in determining their value and allows consumers, jewelers, and collectors to have a clear understanding of what they are purchasing or dealing with. Different gemstones have their own specific grading criteria, and for tanzanite, the AAA grading is one way to categorize its quality.
The grading is typically based on several factors that influence the overall appearance and desirability of the gemstone, such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Importance of Grading
Grading is crucial because it provides a standard way to compare different tanzanite stones. It gives buyers confidence that they are getting a gemstone of a certain quality level. For jewelers, it helps in sourcing the right stones for their designs and pricing their jewelry pieces accurately. In the case of collectors, it allows them to identify and acquire high-quality specimens for their collections.
The Four Cs for Tanzanite
Color
Color is a dominant factor in determining the grade of tanzanite. AAA Tanzanite is known for having an exceptional color. It usually features a deep, vivid blue-violet hue that is both intense and evenly distributed throughout the stone. There should be no visible color zoning or unevenness in the coloration.
The ideal AAA tanzanite color is often compared to the most desirable shades seen in high-end specimens, where the blue and violet blend seamlessly to create a captivating and luxurious look. For example, it should not have any dull or washed-out areas, and any hint of greenish or brownish undertones, which can sometimes be present in lower-quality tanzanites, is minimal or absent.
Clarity
Clarity refers to the presence or absence of inclusions and blemishes within the tanzanite crystal. AAA Tanzanite has a high level of clarity, meaning it has very few internal inclusions that are visible to the naked eye or even under magnification. While it’s almost impossible for any gemstone to be completely flawless, AAA tanzanite comes close.
The inclusions that might be present are typically so minor that they do not detract from the overall beauty and transparency of the stone. This allows light to pass through the gemstone smoothly, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle.
Cut
The cut of a tanzanite plays a vital role in its overall appearance and grade. AAA Tanzanite is cut with precision and skill to maximize its optical properties. A well-cut AAA stone will have facets that are properly aligned and proportioned, ensuring that light enters the gemstone and reflects back in a way that showcases its color and brilliance to the fullest extent.
Whether it’s an oval cut, round cut, emerald cut, or any other popular cut style, the cutter aims to create a shape that is symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing. For instance, in an oval cut AAA tanzanite, the length-to-width ratio is carefully considered to achieve the most flattering look, and the faceting is done to optimize the play of light within the stone.
Carat Weight
Carat weight is a measure of the size of the tanzanite. While AAA Tanzanite can come in various carat weights, the grade itself focuses more on the quality within a given size. However, larger AAA tanzanite stones are rarer and generally more valuable. A small AAA tanzanite might be used in delicate jewelry pieces like earrings or pendants, while a larger one could be the centerpiece of a statement ring or an elaborate necklace.
Even among different carat weights, the other quality factors like color, clarity, and cut must meet the high standards of the AAA grade for the stone to be classified as such.
How AAA Tanzanite is Evaluated
Gemological Tools and Techniques
Gemologists use a variety of tools to evaluate tanzanite and determine if it meets the AAA grade. A loupe, which is a small magnifying glass, is commonly used to examine the clarity of the stone up close. Under magnification, they can identify and assess the inclusions present in the tanzanite.
Spectroscopic analysis is another important technique. By passing light through the gemstone and analyzing the resulting spectrum, gemologists can determine the chemical composition and check for any elements that might affect the color quality. This helps in verifying if the color is natural and of the AAA standard.
Microscopes are also employed for a more detailed inspection of the crystal structure and any surface or internal features that could impact the grading.
Professional Grading Standards
Reputable gemological laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI), have established guidelines for grading gemstones, including tanzanite. For a stone to be classified as AAA Tanzanite, it must adhere to their strict standards regarding color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
These laboratories issue certificates that provide detailed information about the tanzanite’s quality and grade. The certificate serves as proof of the stone’s authenticity and quality, which is highly valuable when buying or selling AAA Tanzanite jewelry.
AAA Tanzanite in Jewelry
Aesthetic Appeal
AAA Tanzanite has a remarkable aesthetic appeal in jewelry. Its deep blue-violet color stands out against different metal settings, whether it’s the cool elegance of white gold, the warm glow of yellow gold, or the sleek modernity of platinum. When set in a ring, for example, an AAA tanzanite can become the focal point, drawing attention with its vibrant color and brilliant sparkle.
In a pendant, it can hang gracefully, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to any outfit. The high clarity and excellent cut of AAA tanzanite ensure that it catches the light beautifully, making it a truly eye-catching gemstone in any jewelry piece.
Popular Jewelry Designs
In jewelry design, AAA Tanzanite is often used in a variety of settings. Solitaire settings are popular for showcasing the individual beauty of a single AAA tanzanite stone. The simplicity of the setting allows the gemstone’s color and quality to take center stage.
Halo settings, where the tanzanite is surrounded by a circle of smaller diamonds or other gemstones, are also common. This enhances the overall brilliance of the piece and makes the AAA tanzanite appear even larger and more luxurious. Cluster settings, with multiple AAA tanzanites grouped together, create a bold and colorful statement, suitable for elaborate necklaces or statement earrings.
Market Value and Pricing of AAA Tanzanite
Value Comparison
AAA Tanzanite commands a higher price compared to lower-grade tanzanites. Its superior quality in terms of color, clarity, cut, and often larger size (in some cases) makes it more valuable. When compared to other gemstones of similar size and color, AAA Tanzanite can hold its own in terms of price, especially considering its rarity.
For example, while diamonds are well-known for their high prices, a well-sized and high-quality AAA Tanzanite can be quite expensive as well, especially when it comes to unique jewelry pieces or collector’s items.
Pricing Factors
The price of AAA Tanzanite is influenced by several factors. The carat weight is a significant one, as larger AAA tanzanite stones are rarer and thus more costly. The intensity and purity of the color also impact the price. A deeper, more vivid blue-violet color will fetch a higher price than a stone with a slightly lighter or less saturated hue.
Additionally, the reputation of the source, whether it comes from a well-known mining area or a particular supplier with a good track record, can affect the pricing. The presence of proper certification from a reputable gemological laboratory also adds to the value and can justify a higher price in the market.
Rarity of AAA Tanzanite
Geological Factors
The rarity of AAA Tanzanite is partly due to its geological origin. Tanzanite is found only in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The specific conditions required for the formation of high-quality, AAA-grade tanzanite are limited. The combination of the right chemical elements, temperature, and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust to produce gemstones with exceptional color, clarity, and other qualities is not common.
Miners have to extract a large amount of ore to find tanzanite crystals that meet the AAA standards, making these stones relatively scarce in the market.
Quality Standards and Availability
Given the strict quality requirements for AAA grading, only a small percentage of the total tanzanite mined can be classified as AAA. Many tanzanite stones may have good color but fall short in clarity or cut, or vice versa. The limited availability of stones that meet all the AAA criteria simultaneously adds to their rarity and desirability among jewelers, collectors, and consumers.
Buying Considerations for AAA Tanzanite
Certification
When purchasing AAA Tanzanite, it’s essential to look for proper certification from a recognized gemological laboratory. The certificate will provide detailed information about the stone’s grade, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. It gives you assurance that you are indeed getting a genuine AAA-quality tanzanite.
Without proper certification, it can be difficult to accurately assess the quality and value of the gemstone, as there are many factors that need to be evaluated by professionals using specialized tools and techniques.
Working with a Reputable Jeweler
Choose a jeweler with a good reputation and experience in dealing with tanzanite jewelry. A reliable jeweler can guide you through the selection process, explain the differences in quality between various tanzanite stones, and help you find a piece that fits your budget and preferences. They can also provide after-sales services like cleaning, resizing (if applicable), and maintenance advice for your AAA Tanzanite jewelry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, AAA Tanzanite represents the top tier of quality when it comes to this captivating gemstone. Its outstanding color, high clarity, precise cut, and significant carat weight (in some cases) make it a highly prized and valuable asset in the jewelry world. Whether you’re looking to add a luxurious piece to your personal collection, create a special engagement ring, or invest in a gemstone with potential for appreciation in value, understanding what AAA Tanzanite is and its various aspects is crucial. With its rarity and exceptional beauty, AAA Tanzanite continues to hold a special place in the hearts of jewelry lovers and collectors alike, and its allure is likely to endure for years to come.
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