Tanzanite is a stunning gemstone with a fascinating history. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967, Tanzanite has become a popular choice for jewelry lovers around the world. As with any gemstone, it's important to know what to look for when buying Tanzanite. In this guide, we'll cover the key characteristics of Tanzanite, grading and certification systems, sourcing considerations, factors affecting value, care, and maintenance, and tips for buying Tanzanite.

Tanzanite characteristics

Tanzanite is known for its striking blue-violet color, but it can also come in shades of blue, green, yellow, and brown. The color is influenced by the presence of trace elements in the crystal structure. Tanzanite can also vary in clarity and transparency, with some stones having visible inclusions or cloudiness. Cut and shape can also affect the appearance of Tanzanite, with well-cut stones exhibiting a bright and lively sparkle. Carat weight is also a key factor in determining the value of a Tanzanite stone.

The Main characteristics of Tanzanite

Tanzanite grading and certification There are several grading systems used for Tanzanite, including the Tanzanite Foundation Grading System, the AGL Tanzanite Grading System, and the GIA Colored Stone Grading System. Each system evaluates Tanzanite based on factors such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. It's important to choose a reputable laboratory or appraiser to grade your Tanzanite and to obtain a certificate of authenticity and origin to ensure the stone's value and ethical sourcing.

Sourcing Tanzanite

Tanzanite is only found in a specific region of Tanzania, making it a relatively rare gemstone. Mining for Tanzanite can be difficult and dangerous, and there are concerns about ethical and environmental practices in some areas. When sourcing Tanzanite, it's important to choose a reputable dealer who can provide information about the stone's origin and ethical sourcing. Look for suppliers who follow fair trade and responsible sourcing practices, and who can verify that their Tanzanite is not associated with human rights abuses or environmental damage.

Mining of Tanzanite gemstone

Tanzanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone that is only found in one location in the world: the Mererani Hills of Tanzania. The mining of tanzanite is a complex process that requires specialized techniques and equipment. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how tanzanite is mined and the challenges associated with this process.

Location of Tanzanite Mines Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 by a Maasai tribesman named Jumanne Ngoma, who stumbled upon a cluster of blue-violet crystals while herding cattle in the Mererani Hills. Today, the Mererani mines are the only known source of tanzanite in the world, and they cover an area of approximately four square miles.

The Mererani mines are located in the Manyara Region of northern Tanzania, near the city of Arusha. The mines are situated at an altitude of approximately 6,000 feet above sea level, and the surrounding terrain is rugged and mountainous.

Tanzanite Mining Process The mining of tanzanite is a complex and labor-intensive process that involves both surface and underground mining techniques. Surface mining involves the use of heavy machinery to remove the overlying rock and soil, while underground mining involves the excavation of tunnels and the use of hand tools to extract the tanzanite crystals.

Once the tanzanite has been extracted, it is transported to a sorting and grading facility, where it is sorted by color, clarity, and size. The tanzanite is then treated to enhance its color, using a process known as heat treatment. Finally, the tanzanite is polished and cut into the desired shape, ready for use in jewelry and other decorative items.

Challenges in Tanzanite Mining Despite its economic importance to the local community, tanzanite mining is not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is illegal mining and smuggling, which deprives the government of much-needed revenue and can lead to unsafe working conditions for miners.

Another challenge is the health and safety risks associated with mining, which include exposure to dust, noise, and dangerous chemicals. The environmental impact of mining is also a concern, as the removal of large quantities of rock and soil can cause soil erosion and habitat destruction.

The Future of Tanzanite Mining To address these challenges, the Tanzanian government has implemented various regulations and initiatives aimed at improving the safety and sustainability of tanzanite mining. For example, the government has introduced licensing requirements for miners and has established a tanzanite certification system to ensure that only legally mined and processed tanzanite is sold.

Advancements in mining technology, such as the use of drones and other remote sensing techniques, are also helping to improve the efficiency and safety of tanzanite mining. These technologies can help miners to identify the location and quality of tanzanite deposits, without the need for costly and dangerous exploration.

Conclusion Tanzanite mining is a complex and challenging process that requires specialized skills, equipment, and techniques. Despite the challenges, tanzanite remains a highly valued gemstone, renowned for its unique color and beauty. By addressing the challenges associated with mining, and by embracing new technologies and practices, the tanzanite mining industry can continue to thrive and benefit the local community for years to come.

Factors affecting Tanzanite value

The value of Tanzanite can be affected by several factors, including rarity, quality, and market demand. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, and its limited availability makes it more valuable than some other stones. The quality of a Tanzanite stone is also important, with higher grades of color, clarity, and cut commanding higher prices. Market demand can also influence the value of Tanzanite, with trends in fashion and consumer preferences affecting the availability and pricing of the gemstone.

Care and maintenance of Tanzanite

To keep your Tanzanite looking its best, it's important to clean and handle it properly. Tanzanite is relatively soft compared to other gemstones and can be scratched or chipped if not handled carefully. Avoid exposing your Tanzanite to harsh chemicals or high temperatures, and clean it with mild soap and water using a soft brush. Store your Tanzanite separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches or damage.

Buying Tanzanite When buying Tanzanite, consider your budget and the purpose of the purchase. Tanzanite can be a great choice for special occasions or as an investment, but it's important to choose a reputable seller who can provide information about the stone's origin and quality. Look for sellers who offer certificates of authenticity and grading reports, and who are transparent about their sourcing practices and pricing. Ask questions and do your research to ensure you're getting a fair price for a high-quality Tanzanite stone

Conclusion

Tanzanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone with a rich history and many desirable qualities. When buying Tanzanite, it's important to consider factors such as color, clarity, cut, carat weight, grading and certification, sourcing, and value. By choosing a reputable seller and taking proper care of your Tanzanite, you can enjoy its beauty and value for years to come. Whether you're looking for a special gift or an addition to your own jewelry collection, Tanzanite is a gemstone that's sure to impress.