Tanzanite Birthstone
Tanzanite Meaning and Benefits
Tanzanite Prices
Tanzanites About
In 2002, Jewelers of America officially added tanzanite as a December birthstone. Market experts suggested that this purely commercial decision was heavily influenced by Tiffany & Co., which was actively investing in tanzanite marketing at the time. Since the gemstone was only discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, it has no historical connection to the centuries-old European birthstone tradition, which traces its origins to biblical texts.
Since Tanzanite was discovered relatively recently, it is not mentioned in any traditional systems, whether in lithotherapy or astrology. However, some modern Indian astrologers consider tanzanite as a potential alternative to blue sapphire, the gemstone of Saturn (Shani). In this context, tanzanite is believed to enhance intuition, focus, and discipline, as well as strengthen Saturnian qualities such as asceticism, perseverance, and willpower.
Tanzanite prices vary significantly based on several factors: color, size, and whether or not the stone has undergone heat treatment.
If a tanzanite is unheated but has a rich, saturated color, and this is confirmed by a certification, its price can reach $400–$500 per carat, or even higher, depending on the stone’s beauty.
If a tanzanite exhibits the D-block or Royal Blue color, its price is also around $500 per carat, sometimes more.
The rarest and most valuable shade is Vivid Blue, occurring in only one out of a thousand stones. Last year, I came across only three tanzanites classified as Vivid Blue. The price for such specimens starts at $500 per carat and can be significantly higher.
Size also impacts value. If a tanzanite is unheated but has a watery, pale tone and is small, its price is much lower—around $150 per carat, or even $100 per carat for stones weighing one carat.
The least expensive tanzanites are those that are both unheated and pale in color.
Tanzanite is a rare and highly prized gemstone, known for its striking blue-violet hues. It is a variety of zoisite and was discovered only in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, which remains the only known source of this gem.
1. Chromophore Composition – Tanzanite’s distinctive color is attributed to vanadium, a relatively rare chromophore. Its greenish undertones result from the presence of chromium and iron, while traces of titanium may also be found among its impurities.
2. Hardness – With a Mohs hardness of 6.5, tanzanite is relatively soft compared to other gemstones. It requires careful handling to prevent scratches.
3. Pleochroism – Tanzanite exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it displays different colors depending on the viewing angle, shifting between blue, violet, and burgundy hues.
4. Clarity – According to GIA classification, tanzanite is a Type I gemstone, typically eye-clean with minimal inclusions. Stones with visible inclusions are generally considered lower quality and unsuitable for fine jewelry.
5. Fragility – Tanzanite is brittle and prone to fracturing upon impact. Extra caution is advised to avoid damage.
