Tanzanite is one of the most stunning and sought-after gemstones in the world, known for its captivating colors and rarity. While blue tanzanite is widely recognized, yellow tanzanite is a lesser-known but equally intriguing variety. In this guide, we will explore the differences, similarities, and unique characteristics of both yellow tanzanite and blue tanzanite, helping you appreciate these beautiful stones and make an informed choice if you’re considering adding one to your collection.
What is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, found only in one place on Earth: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. Discovered in the 1960s, tanzanite has quickly become a popular gemstone due to its vivid colors and rarity. The most commonly known variety of tanzanite is blue, but it can also appear in other colors, including purple, pink, yellow, and green. The color variations are due to the presence of trace elements like vanadium and the stone’s crystal structure.
The Origin of Yellow and Blue Tanzanite
Blue tanzanite is the most famous and commercially available form of tanzanite. Its color can range from a light lavender-blue to a deep royal blue, often with violet undertones. The blue hue results from trace amounts of vanadium present in the stone’s crystal structure. When heated, the vanadium causes the stone to shift from its natural brownish color to a vibrant blue.
Yellow tanzanite, on the other hand, is much rarer. Its soft, golden hue is caused by different trace elements and inclusions within the stone. Unlike blue tanzanite, yellow tanzanite does not undergo heat treatment to enhance its color, making it a natural, untreated gemstone. This rarity and lack of treatment make yellow tanzanite highly coveted by collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.
Color: A Striking Contrast
Blue Tanzanite
The rich blue color of tanzanite is what makes it so popular in the jewelry world. High-quality blue tanzanite displays a deep, vivid blue that can rival even sapphires in its beauty. The stone often shows a secondary hue of violet, adding to its charm and depth. Blue tanzanite’s color is pleochroic, meaning it can show different colors when viewed from different angles – typically blue, violet, and even burgundy.
Yellow Tanzanite
Yellow tanzanite is much more subtle in its color compared to its blue counterpart. Its soft, pastel hues range from pale yellow to a rich golden tone. While not as striking as blue tanzanite, yellow tanzanite has a warm and inviting glow that appeals to those who prefer understated elegance. The stone also exhibits pleochroism, though its color variations are less pronounced than blue tanzanite, often showing shades of yellow, green, or even a hint of brown.
Rarity and Value
One of the primary differences between yellow and blue tanzanite lies in their rarity.
Blue Tanzanite Rarity
Although blue tanzanite is more commonly available than yellow tanzanite, it is still considered rare due to its limited geographical source. Tanzanite mines in Tanzania are expected to be depleted within the next few decades, making blue tanzanite a valuable investment stone. The value of blue tanzanite is influenced by its color intensity, with the deepest blues commanding the highest prices.
Yellow Tanzanite Rarity
Yellow tanzanite is even rarer than blue tanzanite, and because of its natural, untreated state, it is highly prized by collectors. The scarcity of yellow tanzanite makes it a unique and valuable gemstone, though its value is generally lower than blue tanzanite because the demand for blue tanzanite is higher. However, as more collectors and gemstone enthusiasts become aware of yellow tanzanite, its value is expected to rise.
Durability: Which One is Harder?
Both yellow and blue tanzanite share the same physical properties as they are varieties of the same mineral.
Hardness
Tanzanite ranks 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones like sapphires or diamonds. This means both yellow and blue tanzanite are vulnerable to scratches and should be worn with care, especially in rings or bracelets that are subject to frequent wear.
Toughness
Tanzanite’s crystal structure is somewhat brittle, meaning it is prone to chipping or breaking if struck with force. Both yellow and blue tanzanite require protective settings in jewelry to prevent damage. Caring for your tanzanite properly will extend its life and maintain its beauty for years to come.
See Also: The Benefits of Choosing CZ Tanzanite for Engagement Rings
Clarity and Cut
Clarity in Blue Tanzanite
Blue tanzanite is typically more included than yellow tanzanite. However, many inclusions in blue tanzanite are not visible to the naked eye and do not significantly impact the stone’s appearance. High-quality blue tanzanite with excellent clarity can command high prices, especially when paired with a deep blue color.
Clarity in Yellow Tanzanite
Yellow tanzanite tends to have fewer inclusions, and many stones are eye-clean, meaning they have no visible inclusions to the naked eye. The clear, golden hues of yellow tanzanite are enhanced by its clarity, giving the stone a transparent and brilliant appearance.
Cutting Techniques
Cutting plays a significant role in both yellow and blue tanzanite’s appearance. Because of tanzanite’s pleochroism, cutters must orient the stone carefully to maximize its most desirable color. Blue tanzanite is often cut into shapes that enhance its depth of color, such as ovals or cushions. Yellow tanzanite, with its softer hues, is usually cut into more subtle shapes like round or emerald cuts, which highlight its clarity and brilliance.
Uses in Jewelry: Which One to Choose?
Blue Tanzanite in Jewelry
Blue tanzanite is a popular choice for all types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets. Its rich, deep blue color pairs well with both white and yellow metals, making it versatile for a variety of settings. However, due to its relative softness, blue tanzanite is best suited for jewelry that will not be subject to rough wear, such as pendants or earrings.
Yellow Tanzanite in Jewelry
Yellow tanzanite is less commonly used in jewelry, but its unique color makes it an excellent choice for those looking for something different. Its warm hues pair beautifully with yellow or rose gold, creating a soft, luxurious appearance. Like blue tanzanite, yellow tanzanite is best suited for pieces that will not be exposed to heavy wear, such as necklaces, brooches, or occasion rings.
Investment Potential: Which Tanzanite Holds More Value?
Investing in Blue Tanzanite
Blue tanzanite is considered a good investment due to its popularity and the impending depletion of Tanzanian mines. As the supply of blue tanzanite diminishes, prices are expected to rise, making it a smart choice for those looking to invest in gemstones. The value of blue tanzanite is highest for stones with intense blue color, good clarity, and excellent cut.
Investing in Yellow Tanzanite
Yellow tanzanite is rarer but less in demand than blue tanzanite, meaning its current market value is lower. However, as awareness of yellow tanzanite grows, its value is likely to increase, making it a potential future investment. Collectors looking for unique, untreated gemstones may find yellow tanzanite an attractive and valuable addition to their portfolio.
Conclusion
When choosing between yellow tanzanite and blue tanzanite, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Blue tanzanite offers a bold, vibrant color that appeals to many, while yellow tanzanite provides a rare, soft glow that stands out for its understated beauty. Both varieties offer excellent investment potential and unique qualities, making them treasured gemstones for any collection. Whether you’re drawn to the deep allure of blue or the golden elegance of yellow, tanzanite is a gemstone that will continue to captivate for generations to come.
