Located in the breathtaking Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, nestled amidst the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, was a true marvel that captivated the global stage with its exceptional rarity and breathtaking beauty—the Tanzanite gem.
Unearthed decades ago, during the late 1960s, this mesmerising blue-violet gemstone has swiftly ascended to become one of the most highly desired and sought-after treasures across the globe. Join us on an enchanting expedition as we unravel the tale behind the illustrious Tanzanite gem and delve into its profound significance.
Discovery
During a food hunt in the Merelani Hills in July 1967, a Maasai tribesman by the name of Ali Juuyawatu came across a mesmerising blue crystal. Intrigued by its unique colour and lustre, he brought the stone to a prospector named Manuel de Souza, who was struck by its exceptional beauty. Recognising its potential, de Souza identified the gemstone as a new variety of the mineral zoisite and named it “tanzanite” in honour of its country of origin.
Properties and Rarity
What distinguishes this from other gemstones is its remarkable trichroism, which allows it to display a range of colours, including blue, violet, and even burgundy. This captivating feature is the result of vanadium, a trace element found in the gem’s crystal structure. Tanzanite belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is a type of zoisite.
The rarity of Tanzanite only adds to its allure. This gemstone can only be found in one location on Earth, making it highly sought after by collectors, jewellers, and enthusiasts. The exclusive source of Tanzanite is the Merelani Hills, which cover a small area of approximately four square kilometres. Experts predict that mining reserves may be depleted within the next few decades, further increasing the value and importance of Tanzanite.
Colour Grading and Quality
The grading of Tanzanite gemstones is determined by factors such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most highly sought-after Tanzanite stones exhibit a vibrant blue shade with a hint of violet, referred to as “exceptional violetish blue” in the grading system. Gemstones with a deeper and more intense blue hue are considered to have greater value. The clarity of the gemstone is evaluated based on the absence of visible flaws or inclusions, while the cut impacts its brilliance and overall visual appeal. Additionally, like any other gemstone, carat weight influences the worth of Tanzanite.
Popularity and Significance
Tanzanite has quickly gained widespread popularity since its discovery, establishing itself as a prominent gemstone in the jewellery industry. With its exquisite colour and rarity, it has become highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts around the globe. The versatility of Tanzanite allows it to be incorporated into various types of jewellery, such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to anyone who wears it. Renowned brands and jewellery designers have recognised the allure of Tanzanite and integrated it into their collections, further elevating its prestige.
In addition to its aesthetic value, Tanzanite holds deep significance for Tanzania and its local communities. This gemstone plays a crucial role in the country’s economy by providing employment opportunities for locals and supporting mining communities. As Tanzania’s national gemstone, Tanzanite embodies the pride that the nation feels for this precious resource. It truly represents the spirit of Tanzania while captivating hearts worldwide with its beauty.
The emergence of Tanzanite in Tanzania has had a profound impact on the gemstone industry. This exquisite gemstone’s stunning blue-violet hue, scarcity, and enchanting charm have entranced collectors and enthusiasts across the globe.
As we admire the sheer beauty of Tanzanite, it is essential to recognise its rich history, geological wonders, and the immense impact it has had on the world of precious gemstones.