Tanzanite
Tanzanite Gemstone Guide
Few gemstones have captured the imagination of the jewelry world quite like Tanzanite. Discovered only in the late 1960s, this extraordinary blue-violet gemstone is found in just one small area of the world, making it thousands of times rarer than diamonds.
Its mesmerizing blend of sapphire blue, royal violet and flashes of burgundy creates an ever-changing display of colour unlike almost any other gemstone. Every movement reveals a slightly different personality, making Tanzanite one of the most captivating gemstones ever discovered.
At Divine by Design, we carefully select premium Tanzanite gemstones that display exceptional colour, brilliance and character. Every piece is handcrafted in Canada using quality materials that allow this remarkable gemstone to take centre stage.
What Is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is the blue and violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It is treasured for its remarkable colour and its unique ability to display different colours depending on the viewing angle, a phenomenon known as pleochroism.
This extraordinary optical property allows Tanzanite to display rich blue, violet and burgundy tones within the same gemstone.
A Remarkable Discovery
Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in northern Tanzania. According to local accounts, naturally occurring grass fires heated the crystals lying near the surface, transforming originally brown zoisite into the brilliant blue-violet gemstones we know today.
Recognizing its extraordinary beauty, Tiffany & Co. introduced the gemstone to the world under the name Tanzanite, honouring its country of origin.
Found In Only One Place On Earth
Unlike most gemstones, Tanzanite comes from a single mining district near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
The known deposit occupies only a few square kilometres, making Tanzanite one of the rarest commercially available gemstones on Earth. Because no significant deposits have been discovered elsewhere, many experts believe today’s mines represent the world’s only economically viable source.
Why Tanzanite Is So Rare
- Found in only one known location worldwide.
- Limited mining area.
- Relatively recent discovery.
- Increasing worldwide demand.
- Finite natural supply.
Many gemologists believe Tanzanite may become increasingly difficult to obtain as existing deposits are gradually depleted.
The Magic Of Pleochroism
One of Tanzanite’s most fascinating characteristics is its remarkable pleochroism. Depending upon lighting conditions and viewing angle, the gemstone may appear:
- Royal Blue
- Velvety Violet
- Purple-Blue
- Burgundy or Reddish Violet
This constantly changing appearance gives every Tanzanite gemstone exceptional depth and personality.
Choosing Quality Tanzanite
The finest Tanzanite gemstones display:
- Rich saturated blue-violet colour
- Excellent transparency
- Strong brilliance
- Even colour distribution
- Minimal visible inclusions
- Excellent polish
At Divine by Design, we carefully select gemstones that exhibit outstanding beauty while maintaining the natural individuality that makes each piece unique.
Our Premium Tanzanite Jewellery
Whether featured in delicate bracelets, elegant necklaces or refined earrings, Tanzanite brings an unmistakable sophistication to every design.
Its vivid blue-violet colour pairs beautifully with sterling silver, white gold, yellow gold and rose gold, making it one of the most versatile gemstones in fine jewellery.
The Meaning Of Tanzanite
Throughout the crystal community, Tanzanite has become associated with transformation, intuition, wisdom and personal growth. Many people wear it as a reminder of new beginnings, inner clarity and self-discovery.
These traditional beliefs are cultural and spiritual in nature and should not be considered scientifically established properties.
Caring For Tanzanite
- Clean with warm water, mild soap and a soft cloth.
- Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
- Protect from sharp impacts.
- Store separately from harder gemstones.
- Remove jewellery before strenuous activities.
Why Choose Divine by Design?
- Premium genuine Tanzanite gemstones
- Carefully handcrafted in Canada
- Sterling Silver, Gold Filled and Rose Gold Filled options
- Thoughtfully designed contemporary jewellery
- Every piece made to order
- Exceptional attention to detail
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tanzanite a natural gemstone?
Yes. Tanzanite is a naturally occurring variety of zoisite found only in Tanzania.
Why is Tanzanite so rare?
It is mined from only one known location in the world near Mount Kilimanjaro.
What colours does Tanzanite display?
Fine Tanzanite displays shades of blue, violet and occasionally burgundy depending on viewing angle and lighting.
What is pleochroism?
Pleochroism is the ability of a gemstone to display different colours when viewed from different directions. Tanzanite is famous for this remarkable characteristic.
Is Tanzanite a birthstone?
Yes. Tanzanite is one of December’s modern birthstones.
Can Tanzanite be worn every day?
Yes, with reasonable care. Although beautiful, Tanzanite is softer than sapphires and diamonds, so avoiding hard impacts will help preserve its beauty.
Will my gemstone look exactly like the photographs?
No two natural Tanzanite gemstones are identical. Slight variations in colour and internal characteristics are part of what makes each piece unique.
Our Featured Handmade Tanzanite Jewelry Pieces
Featured Tanzanite Jewelry
Explore Divine by Design jewelry featuring Tanzanite.
