Tanzanite – The Magical Blue-Violet Gemstone with Unique Color Play and Fascinating Rarity

Tanzanite is one of the most extraordinary gemstones of modern times. Its intense blue-violet color, fascinating pleochroism, and limited origin make it one of the most coveted colored gemstones in the world. Tanzanite was only discovered in 1967 – and has since become an icon. No other gemstone combines such deep blue, elegant violet, and such strong color play in just one crystal.

What is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is the blue to violet variety of the mineral Zoisite.
Chemical composition: Calcium-Aluminum-Silicate (Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃OH).
Its extraordinary color is created by vanadium in the crystal lattice – enhanced by natural or artificial heat.

Special Properties of Tanzanite

Tanzanite displays a color play that no other gemstone possesses – a harmonious interplay of blue and violet.

unique blue-violet
strong pleochroism → shows blue, violet & burgundy depending on the viewing angle
high transparency
noble vitreous luster
good hardness (6–7) → suitable for jewelry
only one source worldwide → extreme geological peculiarity

Colors & Varieties of Tanzanite

Tanzanite offers a unique spectrum of intense gemstone colors:

Deep Blue Tanzanite
The most valuable variety. Dark blue with a violet undertone → very rare & high-priced.
Royal Blue Tanzanite
Intense, radiant blue with a slight purple. The "classic" premium tanzanite.
Violet Tanzanite
Elegant violet with a blue shimmer. Particularly popular with collectors.
Lavender Tanzanite
Delicate pastel shades. Ideal for modern jewelry designs.
Untreated Tanzanite
Mostly brownish or greenish – less colorful, but collectible.

Origin of Important Tanzanite

Tanzanite has only one single source worldwide:

Tanzania – Merelani Hills (near Kilimanjaro)
A geologically unique area divided into four "blocks" (A–D). The best qualities traditionally come from:

Block C & D
This exclusive origin status makes tanzanite one of the rarest gemstones in the world.

Treatment of Tanzanite

Almost all tanzanite is heat-treated (heating). Untreated, naturally blue-violet tanzanites are extremely rare.

intensifies the blue
removes brownish or greenish undertones
stable & accepted in the industry

Value Factors of Tanzanite

1. Color

The most important factor:

deep blue → highest value class
blue-violet mix → highly coveted
too pale → lower value

2. Clarity

Tanzanite is usually very clear.

eye-clean → particularly valuable
slight inclusions → acceptable
many inclusions → significantly inferior

3. Cut

A good cut maximizes:

color play (pleochroism)
light reflections
depth effect

Typical cuts are: Oval, Cushion, Drop, Emerald Cut.

4. Size

Tanzanite forms large crystals:

5–10 ct → highly sought after
10–20 ct → impressive & high-priced
over 20 ct → rare in top color

Is Tanzanite a Good Gemstone for Collectors?

Yes – and particularly coveted. Tanzanite is one of the most important colored gemstones of our time.

Reasons:

only one source worldwide
intense, unique color play
strong demand in the luxury jewelry market
attractive value stability
iconic gemstone color

Tanzanite in Macro Art

An ideal gemstone for macro art in acrylic, aluminum, and 3D – especially for elegant color combinations. Tanzanite is spectacular under macro photography: