Tanzanite is a rare and highly sought-after gemstone, renowned for its striking blue to violet hues. However, yellow tanzanite is a lesser-known variety that has been gaining attention in the jewelry world. Unlike the more common blue tanzanite, yellow tanzanite offers a unique and eye-catching color. For buyers, understanding how to identify authentic yellow tanzanite is crucial to ensure that they are investing in a genuine gemstone. This guide will help you navigate the process of identifying authentic yellow tanzanite and make an informed purchase.
What Is Yellow Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is found exclusively in Tanzania. While most tanzanite exhibits a blue or violet hue, yellow tanzanite is a rare color variation caused by the presence of trace elements in the mineral. Yellow tanzanite can range in color from a pale, lemony yellow to a deeper golden hue. It is this vibrant, sunshine-like color that sets yellow tanzanite apart from other gemstones.
Why Is Yellow Tanzanite Rare?
Yellow tanzanite is rare because the conditions necessary to produce this color variation are extremely specific. Unlike the more common blue or violet tanzanite, which is enhanced through heat treatment, yellow tanzanite typically does not require enhancement to achieve its color. The rarity of yellow tanzanite makes it highly desirable among collectors and gem enthusiasts.
The Importance of Identifying Authentic Yellow Tanzanite
Given its rarity and growing popularity, it is essential for buyers to be able to distinguish authentic yellow tanzanite from imitations or treated stones. Counterfeit gemstones are a common issue in the market, and unscrupulous sellers may try to pass off treated or synthetic stones as authentic. Identifying genuine yellow tanzanite can help you avoid falling victim to such scams and ensure that you are purchasing a valuable gemstone.
Characteristics of Authentic Yellow Tanzanite
1. Color
The most important factor when identifying yellow tanzanite is its color. Authentic yellow tanzanite will have a natural, even hue, ranging from pale yellow to deep golden. The color should be vibrant but not overly intense or artificial-looking. Be cautious of stones with extreme color saturation, as they may have been treated or enhanced.
2. Clarity
Like other varieties of tanzanite, yellow tanzanite typically has excellent clarity. Authentic stones will be free of significant inclusions, though minor imperfections may be present. These minor inclusions should not detract from the overall beauty of the stone. If a yellow tanzanite appears cloudy or has many visible inclusions, it may be of lower quality or a synthetic stone.
3. Cut
The cut of yellow tanzanite is crucial for maximizing its brilliance and color. A well-cut stone will exhibit excellent light reflection, making the yellow color appear more vivid. Authentic yellow tanzanite should be cut with precision, and the facets should be well-defined. Poorly cut stones may appear dull or lifeless.
4. Weight and Size
Tanzanite is a relatively dense gemstone, so authentic yellow tanzanite will have a good weight relative to its size. Be wary of stones that feel unusually light for their size, as this may indicate that the stone is synthetic or treated. Additionally, larger yellow tanzanites are extremely rare, so if you come across a large stone at a suspiciously low price, it may not be genuine.
Testing Methods for Authenticity
There are several methods that gemologists use to determine whether a gemstone is genuine. Buyers can request these tests to confirm the authenticity of yellow tanzanite before making a purchase.
1. Visual Inspection
A visual inspection by a trained gemologist can reveal a lot about the authenticity of a yellow tanzanite. The gemologist will examine the stone under magnification to check for inclusions, fractures, and any signs of treatment. While visual inspection alone cannot definitively prove authenticity, it is an important first step in the process.
2. Refractive Index (RI) Test
Tanzanite has a specific refractive index that can be measured using a refractometer. The refractive index of tanzanite typically falls between 1.691 and 1.700. A stone with a refractive index outside of this range is likely not genuine tanzanite. The RI test is a reliable way to distinguish tanzanite from other gemstones that may look similar.
3. Pleochroism Test
Tanzanite is pleochroic, meaning it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. Authentic yellow tanzanite will show pleochroism, typically displaying a range of colors from yellow to blue or violet depending on the angle. A gemologist can use a dichroscope to observe this effect and verify the stone’s authenticity.
4. UV Light Test
Under ultraviolet (UV) light, tanzanite often exhibits a pale blue fluorescence. This characteristic can help distinguish it from other yellow gemstones, such as yellow sapphire or citrine, which may not exhibit the same fluorescence. A UV light test can provide further confirmation that the stone is indeed tanzanite.
5. Certification
One of the most foolproof ways to ensure that you are purchasing authentic yellow tanzanite is to buy a certified stone. Reputable laboratories such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS) can provide certification that verifies the stone’s authenticity. A certified yellow tanzanite will come with a report detailing its color, clarity, cut, and origin, giving buyers peace of mind.
See Also: What Makes David Yurman’s Tanzanite Jewelry Unique?
Common Imitations and Treatments
1. Heat Treatment
While blue and violet tanzanite is commonly heat-treated to enhance its color, yellow tanzanite is typically not treated in this way. If a yellow tanzanite has been heat-treated, its color may appear unnatural or overly saturated. Be sure to ask the seller if the stone has undergone any treatments and request documentation to verify its natural state.
2. Synthetic Tanzanite
Synthetic tanzanite is created in a laboratory and can be difficult to distinguish from natural tanzanite without the proper testing. Synthetic stones may have similar optical properties to natural stones, but they lack the rarity and value of authentic tanzanite. Always ask for certification when purchasing yellow tanzanite to ensure that you are not buying a synthetic stone.
3. Imitation Stones
Yellow tanzanite can sometimes be confused with other yellow gemstones, such as citrine, yellow sapphire, or yellow topaz. These stones may look similar in color but have different optical properties and values. A refractive index test or pleochroism test can help distinguish yellow tanzanite from these imitation stones.
Tips for Buying Authentic Yellow Tanzanite
1. Buy from Reputable Sellers
One of the best ways to ensure that you are purchasing authentic yellow tanzanite is to buy from a reputable seller. Established jewelers and gemstone dealers are more likely to provide genuine, certified stones. Be wary of online sellers or auctions that offer tanzanite at prices that seem too good to be true.
2. Request Certification
As mentioned earlier, certification from a reputable gemological laboratory is essential when purchasing yellow tanzanite. A certified stone comes with a detailed report that verifies its authenticity, giving you confidence in your purchase.
3. Inspect the Stone in Person
Whenever possible, inspect the yellow tanzanite in person before buying. This allows you to assess the stone’s color, clarity, and cut. If buying online, ensure that the seller offers a return policy so that you can have the stone inspected by a gemologist upon receipt.
4. Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions about the yellow tanzanite. Inquire about the stone’s origin, any treatments it may have undergone, and whether it comes with certification. A reputable seller will be transparent and provide all the necessary information.
Conclusion
Yellow tanzanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone that can make a unique addition to any jewelry collection. However, identifying authentic yellow tanzanite requires a keen eye and knowledge of the stone’s characteristics. By understanding the key traits of genuine yellow tanzanite, requesting certification, and buying from reputable sellers, you can confidently invest in this stunning gemstone.
By following this guide, you will be well-equipped to identify authentic yellow tanzanite and avoid potential scams, ensuring that your purchase is a valuable and genuine addition to your collection.
