Tanzanite Jewellery Buying Guide

Coloured Gemstone Jewellery Guide

Tanzanite is a captivating and relatively rare gemstone renowned for its mesmerising blue-violet hue and exceptional clarity. A member of the zoisite mineral family, tanzanite is celebrated for its remarkable trichroism, a phenomenon where it displays varying shades of blue, violet, and sometimes even burgundy when viewed from different angles. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, tanzanite ranks between 6.5 and 7, making it moderately durable for jewellery purposes. This enchanting gemstone was first unearthed in the Mererani Hills of Tanzania in 1967, an origin that is reflected in its name. However, it was only after its initial discovery that tanzanite truly captured the attention of the gemstone industry and enthusiasts worldwide. One of the factors contributing to its allure is its scarcity; tanzanite is found in only one location on Earth, making it a unique and sought-after choice for jewellery connoisseurs.

Tanzanite, adorned with its enchanting shades of blue-violet, has acquired a variety of significances and connections over its relatively brief existence as a gemstone. Here, we delve into certain dimensions of tanzanite's lore and symbolism:

1. Spiritual and Metaphysical Properties: Tanzanite is believed by some to possess spiritual and metaphysical qualities. It is often associated with higher consciousness, spiritual insight, and transformation. Some individuals use tanzanite as a tool for meditation and connecting with their inner selves.
2. Connection to Nature and Spirituality: Some interpretations of tanzanite's colour connect it to the spiritual aspects of the natural world. The blue shades can symbolise the sky and water, representing a connection to nature and the elements.
3. Emotional Healing: Tanzanite is said to have a calming and soothing effect on emotions. It is believed to help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while promoting emotional healing and a sense of serenity.

It's important to note that the meanings and associations attributed to gemstones, including tanzanite, are often based on cultural beliefs, historical symbolism, and individual interpretations. Different sources may present varying perspectives on tanzanite's significance, so individuals may resonate with different aspects of its lore based on their own beliefs and experiences.

Tanzanite is found exclusively in one location on Earth: the Mererani Hills of northern Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. This area is the only known source of tanzanite gemstones. The gemstone's name is derived from its place of origin, "Tanzania."

The discovery of tanzanite occurred relatively recently, in 1967, when a Maasai tribesman named Ali Juuyawatu stumbled upon some transparent blue crystals on the ground. The crystals were later identified as a new and distinct variety of the mineral zoisite. Since then, the Mererani Hills have become the primary mining site for tanzanite, making it one of the world's rarest gemstones due to its limited geographic occurrence.