Tanzanite December Birthstone Guide

Introduction:Tanzanite: A Gemstone Where Luxury Meets Rarity:

Tanzanite, a captivating gemstone that dances between mesmerizing blues and violets, has become a coveted treasure in the world of jewelry. Its beauty is undeniable, but its story goes far beyond aesthetics. Delving into the world of tanzanite unveils a tale of geological wonders, geographical exclusivity, and a vibrant future as a valuable gemstone.

A Gem Forged in Fire: The Extraordinary Origins of Tanzanite:

Unlike most gemstones discovered slumbering deep within the earth's core, tanzanite boasts a truly extraordinary origin story. Its journey begins millions of years ago with volcanic eruptions in the region that is now northern Tanzania. These fiery upheavals deposited vast quantities of the mineral zoisite. Over time, the intense heat from these eruptions, coupled with the presence of the rare element vanadium, worked their magic. This unique combination transformed the ordinary zoisite into the extraordinary blue and violet gemstone we treasure today.

Tanzanite: December's Captivating Birthstone:

Tanzanite, a stunning blue-violet gemstone, is the birthstone of December due to its unique allure and relatively recent discovery. Found exclusively in Tanzania, it was introduced to the gem market in the late 1960s. Its captivating color, ranging from deep blue to vibrant violet, symbolizes the cool, tranquil qualities of winter, aligning perfectly with December's serene and reflective nature. Additionally, tanzanite's rarity and exotic origin add a sense of exclusivity and prestige, making it a cherished and meaningful gift for those born in this month, embodying both beauty and rarity.

A Single Source of Splendor: The Geographic Rarity of Tanzanite:

One of the key factors that elevates tanzanite's status is its remarkable geographical exclusivity. Unlike other gemstones found scattered across continents, tanzanite graces only one place on Earth – the Merelani Hills in northern Tanzania. This limited geographical source contributes significantly to the stone's rarity. While geologists have identified potential deposits elsewhere, none have yielded commercially viable quantities of gem-quality tanzanite. This exclusivity ensures that each tanzanite piece carries a unique geographical fingerprint, adding to its allure.

A Spectrum of Beauty: Unveiling the Colors and Symbolism of Tanzanite:

Tanzanite's mesmerizing color palette is not merely a visual delight; it is imbued with a wealth of symbolism. The captivating blues evoke a sense of peace, tranquility, and honesty, qualities that resonate deeply with the serenity of the twilight sky. Violeter hues, on the other hand, inspire feelings of creativity, passion, and luxury. These associations make tanzanite a versatile gemstone, adaptable to various moods and occasions. In some cultures, tanzanite is believed to promote prosperity and good fortune, adding another layer of significance to its captivating beauty.

Beyond Beauty: The Allure and Value of Tanzanite

Tanzanite's rarity and captivating beauty translate to significant value in the world of gemstones. While not quite as expensive as diamonds of comparable size and quality, fine tanzanite can fetch high prices. The value is determined by several key factors:

• Color Saturation: Deep violet-blue hues with a rich and vibrant saturation command the highest prices. Lighter blues and those with hints of brown are less valuable.
• Clarity: Like most gemstones, clarity plays a crucial role. Stones with minimal inclusions (flaws) are more desirable and valuable.
• Cut: A well-cut tanzanite maximizes its brilliance and fire, enhancing its visual appeal and value.

A Gemstone with Investment Potential: A Look Towards the Future:

As the sole source of tanzanite continues to be mined, the future availability of high-quality stones may become more limited. This scarcity, coupled with the growing demand for unique and ethically sourced gemstones, suggests tanzanite has the potential to be a good long-term investment, particularly for high-quality stones. However, it is essential to remember that the gemstone market can fluctuate, and gemstones are not guaranteed to appreciate in value. Consulting with a qualified gemologist or appraiser is recommended before making any investment decisions.

Adorning Yourself with Luxury: Selecting the Perfect Tanzanite Jewelry:

When embarking on your quest for the perfect tanzanite piece, consider the following factors to ensure you acquire a stunning and valuable treasure:

• Color : As mentioned earlier, deep violet-blue hues are the most prized.
• Clarity: Opt for stones with minimal inclusions to maximize brilliance and beauty.
• Cut: A well-cut tanzanite will showcase its fire and brilliance to the fullest. Consider cuts like cushion, oval, or trillion for maximum impact.
• Carat Weight: Larger, high-quality tanzanites naturally command a higher price tag. However, smaller stones with exceptional color and clarity can still be stunning and valuable.
• Setting: Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it moderately durable for daily wear with proper care. Choose a setting that complements the stone's beauty while offering protection from scratches. Consider platinum, white gold, or rose gold depending on the desired aesthetic.

Caring for Your Tanzanite Treasure:

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your tanzanite away from harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, which can damage the stone's

FAQ’S

How to tell the real tanzanite?

Distinguishing genuine tanzanite from simulants or other gemstones requires a trained eye and specialized equipment. Here are some tips:

• Consult a qualified jeweler: A reputable jeweler will have the expertise and tools to analyze the stone's refractive index, pleochroism (the ability to display different colors from different angles), and other characteristics to confirm its identity.
• Look for a certificate of authenticity: Reputable jewelers will often provide a certificate from a recognized gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS), which guarantees the stone's authenticity and details its characteristics.
• Observe the stone's color: Genuine tanzanite exhibits a pleochroic effect, meaning its color can appear different depending on the viewing angle. It may display a blue or violet hue from one direction and a brownish or grayish tinge from another. This is a key indicator of a genuine tanzanite.

Is tanzanite hard enough for an engagement ring?

Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, which means it's moderately durable. With proper care, it can be worn daily in an engagement ring setting. However, it's slightly less scratch-resistant than diamonds (Mohs hardness of 10), the traditional choice for engagement rings. Here's what to consider:

• Lifestyle: If you have an active lifestyle or are prone to bumping your hands frequently, a diamond might be a more practical choice for an engagement ring.
• Setting: Choosing a protective setting, like a bezel setting that encloses the stone, can provide additional security for tanzanite in an engagement ring.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. If you adore the unique beauty of tanzanite and are willing to take proper care of it, it can be a stunning and meaningful choice for an engagement ring.

Is tanzanite more expensive than diamonds?

Generally, no. Diamonds tend to be more expensive than tanzanite of comparable size and quality. Here's a breakdown:

• Factors affecting price: Both tanzanite and diamond prices depend on various factors like color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. However, the sheer rarity and established market demand for diamonds contribute to their higher price point.
• Exceptional tanzanites: While most tanzanites fall below the price of diamonds, exceptionally large, vivid blue-violet tanzanites with exceptional clarity can reach prices comparable to high-quality diamonds.

The Takeaway:

Tanzanite offers a unique and captivating alternative to diamonds, boasting a mesmerizing color palette and a compelling story of geological wonder and geographical exclusivity. While its hardness might make it slightly less suitable for very active lifestyles, its beauty and potential value make it a coveted gemstone for jewelry enthusiasts and investors alike.