In the world of gemstones, the term “created tanzanite” has been a topic of interest and sometimes confusion. It’s important to understand exactly what created tanzanite is, how it differs from natural tanzanite, and its various aspects. In this article, we’ll explore these details to give you a comprehensive view of this particular type of gemstone material.
Definition and Basics
What Does it Mean?
Created tanzanite refers to gemstones that are produced in a laboratory setting rather than being mined from the earth. It is an artificially created material that mimics the chemical and physical properties of natural tanzanite as closely as possible. Scientists and gemstone producers use specific techniques to synthesize it.
The goal is to create a gemstone that has a similar appearance and characteristics to the rare and valuable natural tanzanite found in Tanzania.
The Motivation Behind Creation
There are several reasons for creating tanzanite in a laboratory. One main reason is to meet the demand for tanzanite-like gemstones in the jewelry market. Natural tanzanite is extremely rare, as it is found only in a specific region near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This limited supply means that not everyone who wants tanzanite jewelry can afford or obtain the natural version.
Another reason is to offer a more affordable alternative. Created tanzanite can be produced in larger quantities and at a lower cost compared to extracting natural tanzanite from mines, which involves complex and expensive mining operations.
How is Created Tanzanite Made?
Chemical Composition and Starting Materials
Created tanzanite starts with specific chemical compounds that mimic the elemental makeup of natural tanzanite. Natural tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and contains elements such as calcium, aluminum, silicon, oxygen, along with trace elements like vanadium and chromium that give it its characteristic color.
In the lab, scientists use high-purity chemicals containing these elements in the right proportions. For example, they might start with powdered forms of aluminum oxide, calcium carbonate, and other compounds that can be combined and processed to build the crystal structure of tanzanite.
Growth Methods
There are different techniques used to grow created tanzanite crystals. One common method is the flux growth method. In this process, the starting materials are mixed with a flux, which is a substance that helps dissolve the chemicals at high temperatures and allows the crystals to form slowly as the solution cools. The flux acts like a kind of “liquid medium” that enables the elements to arrange themselves into the crystal lattice of tanzanite.
Another approach is the hydrothermal method. Here, the chemical mixture is placed in a high-pressure vessel with water or an aqueous solution. The vessel is heated to very high temperatures and pressures, simulating the conditions deep within the Earth’s crust where natural tanzanite forms. Under these extreme conditions, the crystals grow over time, and once they reach a suitable size, they can be harvested.
Time and Conditions Required
The process of creating tanzanite in a laboratory can take a significant amount of time. Depending on the growth method and the desired size of the crystals, it might take weeks to months or even longer. For example, in the flux growth method, the cooling process needs to be carefully controlled to allow the crystals to form gradually and with the right structure.
The temperature and pressure conditions are crucial. In the hydrothermal method, temperatures can reach several hundred degrees Celsius, and pressures can be many times higher than atmospheric pressure. Maintaining these stable conditions throughout the growth period is essential for producing high-quality created tanzanite crystals.
Gemological Characteristics
Color
Created tanzanite can have colors similar to natural tanzanite, typically ranging from blue to violet hues. The color is achieved through the incorporation of the same trace elements like vanadium that are responsible for the color in natural tanzanite. However, the color uniformity in created tanzanite might be more consistent than in some natural specimens, as the growth conditions in the lab can be carefully controlled.
Some created tanzanite may have a slightly different color saturation or tone compared to natural tanzanite, but to the untrained eye, it can still look quite similar. For instance, it might have a more vivid or evenly distributed color due to the regulated addition of coloring elements during the creation process.
Hardness
In terms of hardness, created tanzanite has a similar hardness to natural tanzanite, which is around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This means it can withstand normal wear in jewelry to an extent, although it’s still softer than some traditional gemstones like diamonds (with a hardness of 10). The hardness is determined by the crystal structure and chemical composition, which are replicated in the laboratory to closely match the natural version.
However, just like natural tanzanite, it’s important to handle created tanzanite jewelry with care to avoid scratches and damage.
Clarity
Created tanzanite often has a high level of clarity. Since the growth process in the laboratory can be controlled to minimize the incorporation of impurities, there are usually fewer internal inclusions compared to some natural tanzanite stones. This makes it more transparent and allows light to pass through and interact with the crystal in a way that enhances its brilliance.
But it’s important to note that even created tanzanite might have some very minor inclusions or growth marks that are characteristic of the synthesis process, although these are typically much less visible or significant than in many natural tanzanite specimens.
Cut
The cut of created tanzanite follows the same principles as for natural tanzanite. Jewelers use different cuts like oval, round, emerald, or cushion cuts to enhance its beauty and optical properties. A well-cut created tanzanite will have facets that are properly aligned and proportioned to maximize the reflection and refraction of light, making the color and sparkle more prominent.
Whether it’s for a ring, pendant, or earrings, the cut plays a crucial role in bringing out the best in the created tanzanite and making it an attractive gemstone in jewelry pieces.
Differences from Natural Tanzanite
Origin and Rarity
The most obvious difference is the origin. Natural tanzanite is formed deep within the Earth’s crust over millions of years under specific geological conditions in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. It is a rare gemstone because of its limited geographical source. Created tanzanite, on the other hand, is produced in a laboratory, and its availability can be more controlled and produced in larger quantities depending on the manufacturing process.
The rarity of natural tanzanite gives it a certain prestige and often commands higher prices in the market, especially for high-quality specimens. Created tanzanite, while it can look similar, lacks that natural exclusivity and is generally more accessible and affordable.
Inclusions and Growth Patterns
Natural tanzanite typically has inclusions that are a result of its formation in the earth. These can include small mineral grains, fluid inclusions, or other imperfections that tell a story about its geological history. Created tanzanite may have different types of inclusions or growth marks related to the laboratory process, such as signs of the flux or evidence of the hydrothermal growth environment.
The growth patterns of natural tanzanite are influenced by the complex and variable conditions in the earth, while created tanzanite has more regular and predictable growth patterns due to the controlled laboratory environment.
Market Perception and Value
In the market, natural tanzanite is often seen as a premium gemstone and is valued highly for its rarity and natural beauty. It is sought after by collectors and those willing to invest in unique gemstones. Created tanzanite, although it can be a beautiful and viable option for jewelry, is generally considered a more budget-friendly alternative and may not have the same investment potential or perceived value as natural tanzanite.
However, the price difference also makes created tanzanite appealing to a wider range of consumers who want the look of tanzanite in their jewelry without paying the premium prices associated with the natural version.
Uses in Jewelry
Popular Jewelry Items
Created tanzanite is widely used in various jewelry pieces. It can be found in rings, where it might be set as a solitaire or in combination with other gemstones. For example, in a cocktail ring, a created tanzanite can be the centerpiece, surrounded by smaller cubic zirconia or other synthetic gemstones to create a sparkly and eye-catching design.
Pendants are also a common choice. A simple pendant with a single created tanzanite can add a touch of color and elegance to an outfit. Earrings made with created tanzanite 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
When using created tanzanite in jewelry design, designers can take advantage of its relatively consistent color and clarity. They can create bold and colorful patterns by combining multiple created tanzanite stones of different sizes or cuts. The affordability of created tanzanite also allows for more experimentation in designs, such as using it in elaborate beadwork or inlay designs where a large quantity of gemstones is needed.
Additionally, since it’s not as precious as natural tanzanite in terms of rarity and cost, it can be used in jewelry that is intended for everyday wear, giving consumers the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of a tanzanite-like gemstone without the worry of losing or damaging a high-value item.
Identification and Certification
Gemological Testing
Gemologists use various methods to identify created tanzanite and distinguish it from natural tanzanite. Spectroscopic analysis is one important technique. By examining the way light is absorbed and emitted by the gemstone, they can detect differences in the chemical composition and crystal structure that might indicate it’s a created rather than a natural specimen.
Microscopic examination is also crucial. Gemologists look for signs of the synthetic growth process, such as the presence of flux residues or characteristic growth patterns that are unique to laboratory-grown gemstones. This helps in accurately identifying and differentiating created tanzanite.
Certification Importance
Certification from reputable gemological laboratories is important for both consumers and the jewelry industry when dealing with created tanzanite. The certificate will clearly state whether the gemstone is created or natural and provide details about its quality characteristics like color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
This helps consumers make informed decisions when purchasing jewelry and ensures transparency in the market. It also allows jewelers to accurately represent the products they are selling and build trust with their customers.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations
Ethical Aspects
Created tanzanite can have some ethical advantages. Since it’s produced in a laboratory, there are no issues related to mining practices, such as potential labor exploitation or illegal mining that can sometimes be associated with natural gemstone extraction. It can also be a more sustainable option as it doesn’t rely on the depletion of natural resources from the earth.
However, there are ethical considerations regarding proper disclosure. It’s important that jewelers and sellers are honest about whether a gemstone is created or natural to avoid misleading consumers.
Environmental Impact
The production of created tanzanite can have a different environmental footprint compared to mining natural tanzanite. While the laboratory processes do consume energy and use chemicals, they may avoid some of the environmental damage caused by large-scale mining operations, such as habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution.
However, efforts are still needed to ensure that the production of created tanzanite is as environmentally friendly as possible, for example, by using renewable energy sources in the manufacturing process and properly disposing of any waste materials.
Conclusion
Created tanzanite is a laboratory-produced gemstone that aims to replicate the beauty and characteristics of natural tanzanite. It has its own set of properties, production methods, and uses in the jewelry industry. While it differs from natural tanzanite in terms of origin, rarity, and market perception, it offers an affordable and accessible option for those who appreciate the look of tanzanite. Understanding what created tanzanite is, how it’s made, and how it compares to natural tanzanite is essential for consumers, jewelers, and anyone interested in the world of gemstones and jewelry. Whether you choose natural or created tanzanite depends on your preferences, budget, and the significance you attach to the rarity and natural origin of gemstones.
Related Topics:
