Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a popular gemstone composed of calcium aluminium silicate. ^[1]

Tanzanite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Tanzanite:

• Transparency: Tanzanite can be translucent or transparent.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, tanzanite is orthorhombic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, tanzanite is vitreous (glassy).
• Streak: Tanzanite streaks white.

Tanzanite: Background and Summary

Tanzanite is a blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite, discovered in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania in 1967. It is a relatively new gemstone, but its unique color and rarity have made it a popular choice in jewelry. Tanzanite is a pleochroic gemstone, meaning it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. It can appear blue, violet, or even a reddish-brown color, depending on the lighting and angle of the viewer.

To identify tanzanite, one should look for its characteristic blue-violet color. It is often found in a prismatic crystal form, with elongated, column-like shapes. Tanzanite has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable, but it should still be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage.

Tanzanite is primarily used in jewelry, particularly in rings, necklaces, and earrings. Its unique color and rarity make it a popular choice for special occasion pieces, such as engagement rings or anniversary gifts. It is also sometimes used in decorative objects, such as vases or sculptures.