Tanzanite, a rare and mesmerizing gemstone, is quietly making waves among collectors, fashion influencers, and high-end designers.
For decades, diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds have dominated the world of luxury jewelry, but when Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, this stunning blue-violet gem has remained one of the world’s best-kept secrets.
With its growing rarity, celebrity endorsements, and increasing investment potential, Tanzanite is no longer just a niche collector’s item—it’s becoming a must-have for jewelry lovers looking for something both unique and luxurious.
Available
Natural Unheated Blue Tanzanite Pear Cut Loose Faceted Loose Gemstone ,
Weight-2.96 Cts,
Size – 11.7×8.2 mm ,
Loupe Clean
Price-$739#B11.7 pic.twitter.com/Wv7HDeM3FC
— TANZANITE LOVER 💎 (@Tanzanitelovers) February 19, 2025
From red-carpet events to engagement rings, Tanzanite’s deep hues and exclusivity are capturing the attention of trendsetters worldwide.
Tanzanite appears differently viewed under different lighting
Tanzanite is noted for its remarkably strong trichroism, appearing alternately blue, violet and burgundy depending on crystal orientation. It can also appear differently when viewed under different lighting conditions. The blues appear more evident when subjected to fluorescent light and the violet hues can be seen readily when viewed under incandescent illumination.
In its rough state tanzanite is colored a reddish brown to clear, and it requires heat treatment to remove the brownish “veil” and bring out the blue violet of the stone.
Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 by a Maasai tribesman named Ali Juuyawatu in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. Initially mistaken for sapphire, it was later identified as a unique variety of the mineral zoisite. The famous jewelry company Tiffany & Co. recognized its potential and named it “Tanzanite” after its country of origin, helping to popularize it worldwide.
Gemstone is considered rarer than diamonds
Since it is found in only one location on Earth, Tanzanite is considered rarer than diamonds. Experts believe that the geological conditions that created it occurred only once in Earth’s history, making future discoveries unlikely.
Due to its limited geographical source, Tanzanite is considered an investment gemstone. Some believe that within a few decades, the supply could run out, potentially increasing its value.
The value of Tanzanite depends on several factors, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. For example, an exceptional (deep blue-violet gemstone with flawless clarity) is valued between $600 to $1,500.
After Tanzanite was discovered in 1967, Tiffany & Co. quickly recognized its beauty and potential. They secured exclusive rights to market and promote the gemstone worldwide. While Tiffany promoted it, they never owned or controlled Tanzanite mining.
The Tanzanian government nationalized Tanzanite mines in the 1970s, redistributing control. Today, Tanzanite mining is mainly managed by TanzaniteOne Mining Ltd., which is the largest commercial miner, local small-scale miners in the Merelani Hills region, and the Tanzanian government, which regulates mining to protect the resource.
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