What is tanzanite?
Unique. Rare. Beautiful. Blue. These are all words that can be used to describe the gemstone tanzanite. So, what exactly is it? This gemstone is made up of calcium aluminum silicate and is actually a member of the zoisite family of gemstones. But, because of its rarity and sheer beauty, it gets its own category.
Ages ago, metamorphic rock began forming a flat-topped hill at the base of Kilimanjaro. It formed inside this hill and the gemstone world has never been the same again. The local people as well as the jewelry industry fell in love with the shades of blue and purple found in them.
Where does it come from?
Unfortunately, there is only one location where this tantalizing gemstone can be found. Mine deposits are located at the base of Kilimanjaro in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. As a result, they are quite rare, particularly large stones and stones of exceptional quality. If you can get your hands on a natural stone, don't hesitate to snatch it up. You will pay for it, but it will be worth it to have this rare gem.
Birthstone for December
This rarely happens, but in 2002 the American Gem Trade Association named it as an official birthstone for December. If you are lucky enough to receive a tanzanite ring for your birthday, take good care of it. The rarity of this stone makes it a great heirloom.
If your 24th wedding anniversary is coming up, drop some hints for a tanzanite and diamond ring. Just like birthstones, anniversaries have special gemstones attached to them. For the 24th, it's this unique gemstone.
How to care for your gemstone jewelry
This gemstone is more delicate than other popular stones like the ruby or topaz. It rates a 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means it is fairly soft. An opal rates a 5. So, never place tanzanite necklaces or other pieces in an ultrasonic cleaner or use harsh chemicals to clean them. Warm water and gentle soap will get the job done. Soak it and then polish it with a soft cloth.
The history and lore
The discovery of this stone occurred in 1967. A Maasai tribesman noticed a twinkling on top of a low flat hill at the base of Kilimanjaro. New York jewelers, Tiffany & Co. found out about this unique blue stone and named it after its country of origin. In 1968, the jeweler began selling tanzanite necklaces, tanzanite earrings and more.
The tribes in this area of Tanzania revered the color blue and only women who bore children could wear it. With the discovery of the beautiful blue shades of tanzanite, the Maasai tribesmen gift their wives with the gem when they have a baby. It honors the mother and protects the child. Maybe it should be made the official gemstone for Mother's Day.
This gemstone is so unique in its various shades of bluish-purple. It makes an elegant and sophisticated piece of jewelry suitable for all occasions. Even if you weren't born in December, you can still enjoy the beauty of a tanzanite pendant because this stone truly belongs to everyone. It is rare and it is universal.
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