Tanzanite is a gemstone that results from the smelting of the mineral zoisite. Zoisite has been known for centuries, but the gemstone wasn't discovered until 1967, when if was found by Masai tribesmen in Tanzania, in the plains of East Africa near Mt. Kilimanjaro. So far, it has not been found anywhere else on earth, and is becoming rarer as the mines near exhaustion. One of the most striking things about tanzanite is its trichroism. That is, the stone can appear to be violet, blue or yellow-green, depending on the angle from which it is viewed. Which color is apparent is a function of how the crystals within the gem are aligned. Most tanzanite is treated with heat to deepen the primary colors, and this subdues the trichroism slightly. Because of the color variations, if you want a suite of tanzanite jewelry, it is best to purchase it at one time, from one seller. Matching an already existing piece can be difficult. Tanzanite is one of the more fragile gemstones, with a Mohr scale hardness of only 6.5 to 7, so jewelry made from it shouldn't be worn during strenuous activities or cleaned by the ultrasonic method. Those who believe in the healing power of gems and crystals say that tanzanite is a calming stone, and helps to center and balance the wearer's emotions. That would make it an excellent choice for today's busy women. Whether or not it has calming powers, though, tanzanite remains one of the most in-demand of all gemstones. |
