Tanzanite is a rare blue to violet variety of the mineral zoisite, distinguished by its limited geographic origin and distinctive optical properties. Discovered in the late 20th century, tanzanite occurs exclusively within a small mining area in northern Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it one of the most geographically restricted gemstones in the world. Its discovery, mineralogical classification, and historical context are examined in detail in Tanzanite: The Mysterious African Gemstone.
Unlike most colored gemstones, which are sourced from multiple regions globally, tanzanite originates from a single known location. Its formation required a specific combination of geological conditions that has not been replicated elsewhere, resulting in an inherently finite supply. The importance of geographic origin in defining rarity and long-term availability across colored gemstones is further explained in Gemstone Origins & Rarity.
Tanzanite exhibits strong trichroism, typically displaying blue, violet, and burgundy hues depending on viewing angle and lighting conditions. Heat treatment is commonly applied to remove brownish modifiers present in freshly mined material and to reveal the characteristic blue-violet color. This process is stable, permanent, and accepted within standard gemological practice, as outlined in Treated vs. Untreated Gemstones.
Quality evaluation of tanzanite focuses primarily on depth and saturation of color, followed by clarity, cut quality, and overall size. Stones with vivid blue-violet coloration and minimal gray or brown tones are considered most desirable. Larger examples with strong color saturation are uncommon due to the limited size of most crystal formations. Broader principles influencing gemstone rarity and long-term availability are discussed in Why Gemstones Hold Value Over Time.
Tanzanite is used in fine jewelry, including rings, pendants, earrings, and bespoke designs, typically in protective settings due to its moderate hardness. Beyond its application in jewelry, tanzanite is recognized as a collectible gemstone whose future availability is entirely dependent on remaining Tanzanian deposits. Practical considerations for selecting gemstones for jewelry use are outlined in How to Choose Gemstone Jewelry.
