Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is a form of the mineral zoisite and is an incredible violet-blue gemstone. It is an extremely rare gemstone. The crystals form in the presence of vanadium, a soft, grayish metal. The structure is orthorhombic and it is Trichroic which means it radiates three different colours from three different axes.

Where is Tanzanite found?
Tanzanite can only be found in Tanzania, in the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The area covers only 4 square kilometers.

How rare is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is considered to be a thousand times rarer than Diamonds.

Where and when was Tanzanite discovered?
Tanzanite was discovered in the mid 1960's in the Merelani Hills of East Africa by Massai tribesmen after a bush fire had heated the rough Tanzanite turning it to the violitish, blue colour that we know.

How hard is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a hydrous Calcium-Aluminum Silicate with a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
This means that Tanzanite's hardness is similar to emerald but a bit less brittle and should be cared for. It is not as hard as diamond which rates as 10 or sapphire which rates as 9 on the Mohs scale but harder than steel which rates about 4-5.

How high is the  popularity of Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is the most exciting gemological find of the 20th century and enjoys incredible popularity, mainly in the USA, where around 70% of tanzanite is sold..

How much Tanzanite is sold globally per year?
Worldwide it is estimated that the wholesale market for tanzanite is US$200 - 300 million/year.

What is the cost of Tanzanite?
The cost of tanzanite has varied considerably due to the instability of supply. However, at the moment consumers can expect to pay between US$1000 and US$2000/carat for certified, “Triple A” Tanzanite, depending on cut, carat, colour and clarity.
Tanzanite is currently far more affordable than Sapphire.

What assurance do I have that my Tanzanite is genuine?
When you buy Tanzanite you must make sure it has been graded by an Independent Gemological Laboratory (not one controlled by the seller) and has a certificate. -

How is Tanzanite graded?
Tanzanite like all other semi precious and precious gemstones is graded in independent gemological grading laboratories. 

Does Tanzanite undergo any form of treatment?
All Tanzanite is heated to 500 degrees centigrade. transfrorming it from a dull brown colour to the Intense Violetish Blue which makes it so beautiful and sort after. This is totally accepted in the trade. -

Do you grade your Tanzanite?
We sell Tanzanite that has been graded by an Independent Gemological Laboratory only.

Is it true that Tanzanite is becoming scarcer?
Completely. Tanzanite is one thousand times rarer than Diamond and given that it is only 6.5 on the Mohs scale, much is accidentally destroyed during the mining process. As  it is formed through a unique geological phenomenon, there is less than a million to one chance of it being repeated. Meaning that according to geological tests, the world’s supply of Tanzanite will be totally depleted within 5-10 years. -

How should I care for my Tanzanite?
It is recommended that a soft cloth and warm soapy water is used to clean it in a gentle and controlled manner.
An ultra-sonic cleaner must not be used.

Are there any special meanings or properties associated with Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is the only Gemstone to have been added by the American Gem Trade Association to the list of Birthstones since 1912 and is now an official Birthstone for December.
Massai Tribesmen give it to their newborn children as a bringer of good fortune.

It is also said to have many mystical and healing powers.
Often people who wear it feel spiritual power pulling them up. It encourages the wearer to assist others as it allows them to realize that their own individual truth is connected to eternal truths and the two would sustain each other.
It also activates the throat chakra for clear communication of one's highest truth and is used to enhance psychic abilities. -

Why invest in Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is highly desired and running out, making it one of the surest investments of our time.