Tanzanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone prized for its stunning blue-violet color and unique optical properties. Found exclusively in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, East Africa, tanzanite is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts around the world. However, not all tanzanite gemstones are created equal, and certain colors command higher prices than others. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence the value of tanzanite, including color, and discuss which color of tanzanite is the most expensive.
Understanding Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, which was first discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s. What sets tanzanite apart from other gemstones is its distinctive blue-violet color, which ranges from pale lavender to deep indigo. The color of tanzanite is influenced by trace amounts of vanadium within the crystal structure, which causes the stone to exhibit a phenomenon known as pleochroism. Pleochroism is the ability of a gemstone to display different colors when viewed from different angles, and tanzanite is renowned for its vivid blue, violet, and purple hues.
The most desirable color of tanzanite is a rich, saturated blue with hints of violet, known as “cornflower blue.” Stones with this coloration are considered the most valuable and sought after by collectors and jewelry connoisseurs. However, tanzanite also occurs in a range of other colors, including violet-blue, lavender-blue, and purple, each of which has its own unique beauty and appeal.
Factors Affecting Tanzanite Color
Several factors influence the color of tanzanite, including the following:
Saturation: The intensity or saturation of color is one of the most important factors in determining the value of tanzanite. Stones with a high level of saturation and depth of color are considered more valuable than those with a lighter or less saturated hue.
Hue: The hue or dominant color of tanzanite also plays a significant role in its value. Blue-violet tanzanite with a pure blue hue is generally more desirable than stones with a more purple or violet hue.
Tone: The tone of tanzanite refers to the lightness or darkness of the color. Stones with a medium to medium-dark tone are considered the most desirable, as they exhibit the best balance of color saturation and brilliance.
Pleochroism: Tanzanite’s unique optical properties, including pleochroism, can affect the perceived color of the stone. Stones with strong pleochroism may display different colors when viewed from different angles, adding to their visual appeal and complexity.
Clarity: The clarity of tanzanite, or the presence of inclusions and internal flaws, can also impact its color and overall appearance. Stones with minimal to no visible inclusions are considered more valuable than those with visible flaws that detract from the beauty of the stone.
What Color of Tanzanite Is Most Expensive
While all colors of tanzanite are prized for their beauty and rarity, the most expensive color is generally considered to be a rich, saturated blue-violet with a medium to medium-dark tone. Stones with this coloration are often referred to as “cornflower blue” tanzanite and are highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts for their intense hue and exceptional clarity.
Cornflower blue tanzanite is prized for its vivid color saturation, which gives the stone a vibrant and captivating appearance. The rich blue-violet hue of cornflower blue tanzanite is reminiscent of the petals of a cornflower, hence the name, and is considered one of the most desirable and valuable colors in the tanzanite market.
In addition to its stunning color, cornflower blue tanzanite often exhibits strong pleochroism, with flashes of blue, violet, and purple when viewed from different angles. This unique optical property adds to the allure of cornflower blue tanzanite and enhances its overall beauty and value.
Other Desirable Colors of Tanzanite
While cornflower blue tanzanite is the most expensive color, there are several other colors of tanzanite that are also highly prized and sought after by collectors and jewelry connoisseurs. These include:
Violet-Blue: Tanzanite with a violet-blue coloration is prized for its deep, rich hue and intense saturation. Stones with this coloration exhibit a captivating blend of blue and purple tones that create a sense of depth and complexity.
Lavender-Blue: Tanzanite with a lavender-blue color is valued for its soft, ethereal hue and delicate appearance. Stones with this coloration have a lighter, more pastel-like color that is often associated with femininity and elegance.
Purple: Tanzanite with a pure purple color is relatively rare but highly sought after for its rich, regal hue. Stones with this coloration exhibit a deep, velvety purple tone that is reminiscent of royalty and luxury.
Blue: Tanzanite with a pure blue color is less common than other color variations but is still highly prized for its striking appearance. Stones with this coloration exhibit a vibrant blue hue that is reminiscent of the ocean or the sky on a clear day.
Conclusion
Tanzanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone prized for its stunning blue-violet color and unique optical properties. While all colors of tanzanite are valued for their beauty and rarity, the most expensive color is generally considered to be a rich, saturated blue-violet with a medium to medium-dark tone. Known as “cornflower blue” tanzanite, stones with this coloration are highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts for their intense hue and exceptional clarity. Whether you’re looking for cornflower blue tanzanite or another color variation, there are many reputable sources where you can find high-quality stones to add to your collection or jewelry wardrobe. By understanding the factors that influence the value of tanzanite and knowing where to buy it, you can make informed purchasing decisions and enjoy the beauty and allure of this exquisite gemstone for years to come.
