Tanzanite, a mesmerizing blue-violet gemstone discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s, has captured the hearts of gemstone enthusiasts around the world. Its unique color and rarity have made it a sought-after choice for jewelry. However, a common question that arises is whether tanzanite can withstand the rigors of everyday wear. In this article, we delve into the properties of tanzanite and explore whether it is a suitable gemstone for daily wear.
History of Tanzanite
Tanzanite’s history is as vivid as its color. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, this gem gained fame due to its striking blue-violet hue. Named by Tiffany & Co., its allure spread swiftly, captivating jewelry enthusiasts. Its limited source, the Merelani Hills, lends it rarity. Associated with positivity, tanzanite was believed to encourage communication and spiritual growth. Its journey from a remote location to global prominence highlights its enduring appeal in modern jewelry, captivating hearts with its captivating beauty and remarkable backstory.
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Tanzanite’s Characteristics
Tanzanite belongs to the mineral zoisite and is renowned for its vibrant hues that range from deep blue to purplish-violet. This color is attributed to the presence of vanadium, which imparts its distinct visual appeal. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, tanzanite falls between softer gems like opal and harder ones like sapphire. Its pleochroism—a phenomenon where a gemstone exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles—adds to its allure.
What is the color of tanzanite?
Tanzanite displays a captivating color that ranges from deep blue to enchanting violet or purple hues. Its appearance can shift based on lighting conditions and viewing angles due to its pleochroism. In natural daylight, tanzanite often exhibits a rich blue shade with subtle violet undertones, resembling the vibrant hues of sapphire. Under incandescent lighting, it tends to emphasize warmer purplish tones. This unique color play adds to tanzanite’s allure, making it a highly sought-after and distinctive gemstone that stands out in the world of jewelry.
Durability Considerations
While tanzanite is undeniably beautiful, its mid-range hardness raises questions about its durability for everyday wear. A gemstone’s hardness affects its resistance to scratches and abrasions, which can occur during routine activities. While tanzanite’s hardness is not as high as sapphire’s (9 on the Mohs scale), proper care and understanding its vulnerabilities can make it a feasible choice for daily wear.
Can Tanzanite Be Worn Everyday?
Tanzanite’s suitability for everyday wear hinges on its 6.5 to 7 Mohs hardness. While not as resilient as sapphire, proper care can make it viable. Opt for protective settings like bezels, and avoid harsh activities. Tanzanite’s captivating color and uniqueness make it appealing for occasional wear, preserving its allure. For daily wear, consider low-profile designs to minimize contact. Ultimately, its charm must be balanced with caution, making it feasible for those mindful of its vulnerability to scratches and abrasions.
Factors Affecting the Durability of Tanzanite
The durability of tanzanite, a captivating blue-violet gemstone, is influenced by several factors:
1. Cleavage:
Tanzanite has distinct cleavage, meaning it can break along certain planes if subjected to impact. Protective settings can mitigate this risk.
2. Wear and Tear:
Routine activities like cleaning, gardening, or exercising can expose tanzanite to abrasions. Removal during such activities is advisable.
3. Chemicals:
Harsh chemicals in cleaning agents, beauty products, and even some perfumes can damage tanzanite’s surface. Avoid contact to preserve its luster.
4. Settings:
The choice of setting impacts tanzanite’s vulnerability. Bezel settings offer better protection than prong settings.
5. Design:
High-profile designs can increase the chances of the gemstone coming into contact with surfaces. Low-profile designs minimize this risk.
Balancing its allure with these considerations ensures tanzanite remains an exquisite gem for years to come.
Practical Tips for Wearing Tanzanite Daily
1. Opt for Protective Settings:
To enhance tanzanite’s durability, choose settings that provide protection to the gemstone. Bezel settings, for instance, encase the stone’s edges, reducing the risk of accidental knocks.
2. Avoid High-Contact Settings:
Avoid settings that expose the gemstone to excessive wear, such as prong settings that leave the stone’s sides vulnerable to impact.
Jewelry Design:
3. Consider Low-Profile Designs:
Intricate and elevated designs increase the chances of the gemstone coming into contact with surfaces. Choosing low-profile designs can minimize this risk.
Activities to Avoid:
4. Exercise Caution during Household Chores:
Tanzanite’s susceptibility to scratches means it’s best to remove jewelry before engaging in activities like cleaning, gardening, or lifting heavy objects.
5. Minimize Exposure to Chemicals:
Harsh chemicals found in cleaning agents or beauty products can damage tanzanite’s surface. It’s advisable to remove jewelry before applying such products.
Regular Maintenance:
6. Clean with Care:
Use a soft brush, mild soap, and warm water to clean tanzanite. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as they can potentially damage the gemstone due to its sensitivity to heat and vibrations.
Balancing Elegance and Longevity
Tanzanite’s allure lies in its captivating color, making it a captivating choice for both casual and formal occasions. While it may not have the absolute hardness of sapphire, which often graces engagement rings designed for everyday wear, tanzanite’s unique charm and complementary settings can strike a balance between elegance and longevity.
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What to do if the tanzanite is damaged?
If your tanzanite is damaged, take these steps:
1. Assessment:
Examine the extent of damage. If it’s a small chip or scratch, a jeweler might be able to repair it without altering the stone significantly.
2. Professional Jeweler:
Consult a skilled jeweler experienced in working with tanzanite. They can assess the damage and provide repair options.
3. Insurance:
If covered, contact your insurance company. They might assist with repairs or replacement if the damage is significant.
4. Prevention:
Learn from the incident. Store tanzanite separately from other jewelry, avoid activities that could cause damage, and adhere to recommended cleaning methods.
Remember, immediate action and professional advice are crucial to ensure the best possible outcome for repairing your damaged tanzanite.
Conclusion
The question of whether tanzanite can be worn every day is met with a nuanced answer. While its hardness may not align with the durability of harder gemstones, informed decisions about jewelry settings, design choices, and care can make tanzanite a viable option for daily wear. Its captivating color and unique character make it an enchanting choice, whether reserved for special occasions or embraced as a part of your daily ensemble. Ultimately, choosing tanzanite involves a delicate balance between its alluring aesthetics and the practical considerations of maintaining its beauty over time.
