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Tanzanite has become a popular gemstone since
its discovery in the late 1960s. The rare
gem was named for its source, Tanzania, in
East Africa, the only place it is found. Considering
the unique mix of purple, violet, and blue
hues, tanzanite fascinates the gem collector
and jewelry/fashion designer alike.
VARIETIES, QUALITIES & ORIGINS
Tanzanite is the purplish-blue variety of
the gem species zoisite. The most valuable
tanzanite is medium dark in tone, vivid in
saturation, and slightly violet-blue. Some
people desire the more purplish to violet
tanzanite shades which are more available
and affordable.
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GEMSTONE ENHANCEMENTS
Virtually all tanzanite is subjected to heat
as a normal part of the fashioning process
to improve the color of the gemstone. No special
care is required.
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HARDNESS
(Scratch Resistance)
6-7 on the Moh's Scale
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TOUGHNESS
(Chip & Crack Resistance)
Poor to Fair |
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STABILITY
(To Heat, Light, Chemicals)
Subtle to light. Avoid heat, sudden
temperature changes, strong solvents,
acids.
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CLEANING
Never use ultrasonic/steam cleaning. |
REPAIR
Avoid intense heat and remove from setting
for most repair work.
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OCCASIONS
Alternate December Birthstone, with zircon
and turquoise
24th Wedding Anniversary |
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Gem Photo
Courtesy of ICA
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