11.12.09
Tanzanite Fast Facts
Tanzanite Fast Facts
- Tanzanite was discovered in 1967.
- The exotic violet gem from Tanzania was made popular by Tiffany and Co.
- It was originally meant to be a sapphire alternative.
- While a 6 to 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, tanzanite has fair to poor toughness. (translation: it can cleave/split easily and is sensitive to thermal shock)
- Almost all tanzanite is heated to improve its color
- Most Tanzanite begins as unglamourous brownish zoisite
- Fluctuations in supply, controlled by the Tanzanian government, make the price of tanzanite fluctuate
- Ideal Tanzanite Color is a Pure Blue that rivals Sapphire or a vivid Violet-Blue
- Most commercial tanzanite is purple
- A synthetic tanzanite has not been created, but an imitaions exist–Synthetic Forsterite & Blue Coranite (Glass & purple YAG)
- Fine Tanzanite can rival diamond prices.
- There has been an effort to make Tanzanite an alternative to Blue Zircon for December’s Birthstone
Tanzanite Fast Facts « Rosediamonds's Blog | Diamond Tennis Bracelet said,
November 13, 2009 at 7:05 pm
[...] More: Tanzanite Fast Facts « Rosediamonds's Blog [...]
kathyoinspirations said,
November 16, 2009 at 5:26 am
I like the idea of changing the December birthstone…the tanzanite stone is stunning…much better than the blue zircon. Thanks for sharing this tidbit. I know what I want for my birthday!