From deep in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania comes tanzanite, a gemstone with only a single known source. Tanzanite is one of the most intriguing and desirable precious gemstones of modern times.
1000 times rarer than diamonds, tanzanite has enchanted discerning jewellery buyers seeking rarity and distinction.
Exceptionally brilliant, tanzanite is unique among gemstones for its multi-dimensional colour, radiating a dazzling kaleidoscope of royal blue, violet, indigo, lilac and periwinkle. Tanzanite's exquisite colour, poised intriguing between blue and violet, is unlike that of any other gemstone.
It is this unique colour, vibrant, individual and youthful, that gives tanzanite a strong, immediately recognisable identity and contributes to its special positioning in both the gemstone and the fine jewellery markets.
BUYING TANZANITE
Here's how to go about purchasing your tanzanite:
- Locate a reputable jeweller.
- Using the 4 C's, choose a tanzanite that appeals to you.
- The Tanzanite Foundation encourages the use of the Tanzanite Quality Scale™ and the issuing of certificates with your tanzanite purchase.
The Definitive Tanzanite Buyer's Guide
This Tanzanite Buyer's Guide is the authoritative source of information on buying tanzanite. Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, found only at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, East Africa.
After reading this guide, you will be able to choose the tanzanite that is best for you, based on the 4 C's criteria. The Tanzanite Foundation, an industry supported organisation dedicated to protecting tanzanite's integrity, upholds these guidelines. Tanzanite is a rare and precious investment. We advise that you read this guide before making your tanzanite purchase.
Tanzanite Quality Scale™
This Guide is based on the Tanzanite Foundation’s Tanzanite Quality Scale™, an internationally recognised system for grading and valuing tanzanite.
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The 4 C'S
In a similar way to diamonds, tanzanite is graded according to the 4's. The 4 C’s stand for: Colour, Clarity, Cut and Carat weight. The higher the combination of these characteristics, the more rare and valuable the stone. Understanding and check all 4 C's before purchasing your tanzanite.
Colour
Colour refers to the blue in tanzanite and its degree of violet saturation. The depth of colour ranges from Exceptional to pale, with a 'B' or 'V' following 'v' or 'b' to indicate a predominance of blue or violet hues.
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Clarity
Clarity refers to any natural flaws or inclusions in a tanzanite. Tanzanite ranges from Internally Flawless to Heavily Included.
Cut
Cut refers to the shape, facets and proportion of a tanzanite. A 'fine' cut ensures that the gem's facets reflect light to create maximum brilliance.
Carat
Carat refers to the term used to measure a tanzanite’s weight. One carat has 100 points and weighs 1/5 of a gram.
CARING FOR TANZANITE
Tanzanite is a rare and precious gemstone and in order to preserve its beauty and value the following is recommended:
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaning. This uses high-frequency vibration, which can be dangerous as it readily facilitates cleavage in certain gemstones.
- Clean tanzanite by using a small soft brush and warm soapy water. Gently clean upper and underside of the tanzanite. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.
- Never expose tanzanite to sudden extremes of temperature.
- Store tanzanite in a protective pouch or box and keep separate from other jewellery.
- When altering or repairing jewellery, it is advisable in most cases to first remove the tanzanite from the setting.
- Avoid wearing tanzanite jewellery during vigorous activity.
- Tanzanite is well suited to dress rings, neckpieces and earrings.
- If you have a certificate, keep it in a safe place.
