Born in the shadows of one of the world’s highest mountains, the tanzanite gem is an extraordinary natural treasure. Let’s explore this rare stone and discover how it quickly became a collector’s dream.
What is tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a relative newcomer to the world of precious stones. In 1967, a Maasai herder discovered the gem in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. To this day, it is still the only place in the world where tanzanite is mined.
This rarity, combined with its unique hues, makes tanzanite a mesmerising stone that has entranced gem enthusiasts and jewellery lovers everywhere.
What colour is tanzanite?
Tanzanite has a remarkable, colour-changing ability. Depending on the light and viewing angle, the stone can shift from a deep, royal blue to rich violet, with hints of burgundy that seem to dance and shimmer. Gemologists prize tanzanite for its exceptional brilliance and how the gemstone reflects light.
Tanzanite properties
Scientifically speaking, tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite. This mineral is distinguished by its striking blue-violet hue, caused by trace amounts of vanadium (a type of metal).
The gemstone ranks between six and seven on the Mohs hardness scale (diamond is the hardest at ten), meaning it’s slightly soft and should be treated with care. It has a similar hardness to garnet, moonstone, and emerald—all stones that are wonderful for occasion wear but may be prone to scratching if worn daily or during heavier work (gardening, cleaning, etc.).
How rare is tanzanite?
Tanzanite is incredibly rare. While you can find most gemstones in several locations, miners have only located tanzanite in one small area in Tanzania.
Geologists believe the conditions that created this gem are so specific that the chances of finding it anywhere else on the planet are practically zero. Some experts even predict that the tanzanite mines could be completely depleted within the next few decades.
Tanzanite vs sapphire
At first glance, tanzanite and sapphire might seem like long-lost cousins. Both gems can be a brilliant blue, making them popular jewellery choices—especially for more one-off or special pieces.
However, dig a little deeper, and you’ll quickly discover their differences.
Sapphires have been treasured and worn for thousands of years, including on the crowns of royalty. They’re much tougher than tanzanite, ranking nine on the Mohs hardness scale.
While sapphire’s famous royal blue colour may initially appear similar to tanzanite’s, it doesn’t have the same purple hues and colour-shifting talent. Sapphires also come in a rainbow of hues, including yellow, pink, and green.
You can find sapphires all over the world, from Sri Lanka to Montana, Australia to Madagascar. This wider availability means that, price-wise, high-quality tanzanite can rival or even succeed sapphires.
Choosing between the gemstones means deciding which one best speaks to your soul. Do you want the timeless elegance of a sapphire or the wild, unpredictable beauty of a tanzanite gem?
Tanzanite meaning and benefits
More than just a beautiful gemstone, tanzanite carries deep meaning that speaks to those drawn to its mystical appearance. The gem is often referred to as a stone of transformation, healing, and spiritual awakening.
Many believe tanzanite holds powerful, energetic properties that connect the mind, heart, and spirit. The colour is associated with the third eye and throat chakras and is a favourite among those seeking spiritual insight and clear communication.
In emotional healing circles, tanzanite is considered a stone of compassion and understanding. It’s said to help release stress, calm racing thoughts, and bring a sense of peaceful awareness.
People who work with crystals often describe tanzanite as a stone that supports growth, helping people navigate life’s transitions with grace and clarity.
The gem’s rare origins add to its symbolic power. Just as tanzanite is only found in one corner of the Earth, it’s believed to help people recognise their own unique path and potential.
Tanzanite birthstone
In 2002, Tanzanite joined turquoise and zircon and was added as a December birthstone, bringing a modern twist to more traditional birthstone selections.
For those born during this month, the gem is seen as a symbol of new beginnings, personal transformation, and the beauty of the individual journey.
Tanzanite jewellery
Tanzanite earrings from Robert Gatward Jewellers
Tanzanite’s enchanting blue-violet hues make it a dream for designers and jewellery fans who want to create and wear utterly captivating pieces.
Rings
Rings are perhaps the most personal canvas for tanzanite’s magic. While the stone requires careful consideration due to its relative softness, tanzanite rings can be absolute showstoppers when designed with protection in mind.
Cocktail rings featuring large tanzanite stones set in robust settings—like bezel or halo designs—offer beauty and durability. Vintage-inspired rings often show off tanzanite as a central stone, surrounded by intricate metalwork that highlights its deep, changing colours.
For something even more unique, mixed-metal settings that play with the stone’s tones can make for truly breathtaking pieces.
Engagement rings
In recent years, we’ve seen many engagement rings featuring tanzanite. Unlike typical diamond-only settings, a tanzanite engagement ring tells a story of uniqueness and adventure.
Choose a delicate gold band cradling blue-violet tanzanite, perhaps surrounded by a halo of diamonds that make the stones’ colour pop like a twilight sky.
Earrings
Earrings showcase tanzanite’s glimmering beauty in all its glory. Drop earrings that catch the light can show off the gem’s colour-changing properties, flitting between hues with every movement. Opt for tanzanite studs for a more subtle elegance or dramatic chandelier earrings that make a bold statement at evening events.
Necklaces
Necklaces and pendants make for a dramatic backdrop for tanzanite. A single tanzanite pendant can become a conversation piece, drawing eyes and sparking curiosity.
Designers often pair tanzanite with complementary stones such as diamonds or white topaz to elevate their natural brilliance. Some of the most alluring pieces use tanzanite as a centrepiece in vintage-inspired designs or modern, minimalist settings.
Bracelets
Bracelets provide another exquisite way to display tanzanite’s beauty. Tennis bracelets featuring small tanzanite stones create an intricate, sophisticated look, while more elaborate designs and cuff bangles might include the gem as a focal point. Whatever you go for, a tanzanite bracelet is sure to draw all eyes.
Discover tanzanite jewellery at Robert Gatward
Robert Gatward Jewellers’ carefully curated collection of tanzanite jewellery showcases the gem in all its glory. We offer everything from tiny pendants to statement rings that capture the stone’s one-of-a-kind magic.
Our expert jewellers are passionate about helping you find the perfect tanzanite piece. We’ll help you understand this extraordinary stone, select the best item for you, and provide ongoing support. Each tanzanite jewel is genuine and sourced from our selection of trusted brands and designers.
Discover a gem that’s as unique as you are. Contact us today or make an appointment to visit one of our showrooms, where our experienced team will be happy to help.
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