Tanzanite Jewelry: The Rarest Blue Gemstone in the World
Tanzanite is one of the rarest and most fascinating gemstones in the world – it is found in only one place on Earth: at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Its unique blue-violet hue has captivated the jewelry world since its discovery in 1967. This guide explains everything about Tanzanite jewelry.
What makes Tanzanite so special?
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite (calcium aluminum silicate). Its color is created by vanadium admixtures and ranges from delicate blue-violet to deep royal blue-violet. What makes it unique: pleochroism – when viewed from different angles, it shows different colors: blue, violet, and sometimes bronze. No other stone changes its appearance so dramatically depending on light and angle.
History of Discovery
In 1967, Maasai cattle herder Ali Juuyawatu discovered blue crystals on the slopes of the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. New York jeweler Tiffany & Co. recognized its potential and named the stone after its country of origin. Within a few years, Tanzanite became the fourth most sought-after gemstone worldwide – after diamond, ruby, and sapphire.
Assessing Tanzanite Quality
- Color: Intense blue-violet with moderate to strong saturation is most valuable. Stones that are too light appear colorless, while those that are too dark lose their violet hue.
- Violet Content: Pure blue without violet is rarer and more expensive. "Tanzanite Blue" with a balanced blue-violet is considered the benchmark color.
- Transparency: High-quality Tanzanites are flawless – without visible inclusions.
- Treatment: Almost all Tanzanites are heat-treated (removes brown tones, enhances blue-violet) – this is standard and accepted.
- Cut: Oval and cushion are classic Tanzanite cuts.
Tanzanite as a December Birthstone
Tanzanite is one of the official birthstones for December – alongside turquoise and zircon. As a gift for December babies: very personal and exceptional. "I brought you a stone that only exists in one place in the world."
Tanzanite versus Sapphire
Common confusion: Tanzanite has more violet than sapphire, is softer (Mohs 6–7 vs. 9) and indeed only comes from Tanzania. Sapphire is found worldwide. Tanzanite is slightly more delicate for everyday jewelry than sapphire – better for earrings and pendants than for daily rings.
Wearing Tanzanite Modernly
- Tanzanite Solitaire Stud Earrings: The most versatile Tanzanite jewelry piece – the blue-violet sparkles in different shades as it moves.
- Tanzanite Pendant: Oval set in white gold – maximum contrast and elegance.
- Tanzanite Cocktail Ring: For special evenings – no other stone attracts more attention.
Tanzanite Jewelry at Corelune Jewellery
The rarest of blue stones – at Corelune Jewellery you will find Tanzanite jewelry for those who seek something unique.
👉 Discover Tanzanite Jewelry – a piece of Kilimanjaro!
