Tanzanite, with its mesmerizing hues of blue and violet, has earned a place of admiration in the world of gemstones. Found exclusively in Tanzania, this rare gemstone has captivated gem enthusiasts and jewelry connoisseurs alike. In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the qualities that define the best quality tanzanite, delving into its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, all of which contribute to its brilliance and desirability.
The Attraction of Tanzanite
Tanzanite’s appeal lies in its remarkable color-changing properties, also known as pleochroism. The gemstone exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles, transitioning from deep blue to violet or purplish-blue. Its distinctive beauty makes tanzanite a highly sought-after gem.
Which country has the best tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a gemstone that is exclusively found in one location in the world – Tanzania, East Africa. Specifically, it is mined in the Merelani Hills near the town of Arusha in northern Tanzania. The Merelani Hills deposit is the only known source of tanzanite, making Tanzania the sole and best country to produce this captivating gem.
The unique geological conditions in this region, characterized by the interaction of vanadium, chromium, iron, and other trace elements with specific rock formations, have led to the formation of tanzanite. The gem’s mesmerizing blue and violet colors are a result of this geological phenomenon.
Tanzania’s Merelani Hills have been the primary source of tanzanite since its discovery in the 1960s, and it remains the world’s leading and most important location for mining this rare and beautiful gemstone
The Four Cs of Tanzanite Quality
Similar to other gemstones, the quality of tanzanite is evaluated based on the four Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Understanding these factors is essential for identifying the best quality tanzanite.
1. Color: The Essence of Brilliance
The most crucial characteristic of tanzanite is its color. The finest tanzanite displays a deep and vivid blue color, often with a hint of violet. Gems with strong blue hues and minimal brown or gray undertones are considered the most desirable.
2. Clarity: Crystal Clear Perfection
Tanzanite is often found with some inclusions due to its formation process. However, the best quality tanzanite has high clarity, with few or no visible inclusions to the naked eye. Gems with good transparency and minimal imperfections are valued for their pristine appearance.
3. Cut: Unleashing the Gem’s Brilliance
The cut of tanzanite plays a vital role in enhancing its brilliance and color display. Skilled lapidaries carefully cut tanzanite to maximize its pleochroic properties, allowing the gemstone to exhibit its captivating color-changing effect.
4. Carat Weight: Size Matters
Tanzanite is available in a range of sizes, and larger gems are rarer and command higher prices. The best quality tanzanite balances its size with color intensity, clarity, and cut, creating a gem that dazzles with its brilliance and presence.
Has Tanzanite on the market been heat-treated?
The majority of Tanzanite on the market has been heat-treated. Heat treatment is a standard and accepted practice in the gemstone industry for enhancing the color and clarity of Tanzanite. Natural Tanzanite is often found with brown or grayish hues, and heat treatment can eliminate these undertones, resulting in the desirable deep blue and violet colors. Additionally, the heating process can improve the clarity by reducing or removing internal inclusions, enhancing the gem’s transparency and brilliance. It is essential for sellers to disclose any treatments to potential buyers, ensuring transparency and providing customers with the necessary information about the gem’s enhancement.
Why Tanzanite Needs Heating?
Tanzanite typically undergoes a heating process to enhance its color and improve its overall appearance. Heating is a common practice in the gemstone industry and is widely accepted for tanzanite, as it serves several essential purposes:
1. Color Enhancement:
Heating helps unlock the full potential of tanzanite’s color. Natural tanzanite is often found with brown or grayish hues, but controlled heating at specific temperatures can eliminate these undesirable tones, resulting in a more vibrant and intense blue or violet color.
2. Removal of Inclusions:
The heating process can also improve the clarity of tanzanite by reducing or eliminating internal inclusions. This enhances the gem’s transparency and allows more light to pass through, enhancing its brilliance.
3. Stabilization:
Tanzanite is sensitive to rapid temperature changes, which can cause internal stresses and even fracturing. Heating stabilizes the gemstone, making it more durable and suitable for jewelry settings.
The heating treatment of tanzanite is an accepted industry standard and does not diminish the gem’s value or desirability. Proper disclosure of any treatments is essential to ensure transparency and confidence among buyers and collectors.
What is the best grade of tanzanite?
The best grade of tanzanite is commonly referred to as “AAA” grade, which represents the highest quality and most desirable specimens of this gemstone. AAA-grade tanzanite possesses exceptional characteristics in terms of color, clarity, and cut. It is important to note that gem grading can vary slightly between different sellers and laboratories, so it’s advisable to rely on reputable sources and certified gemologists when evaluating the grade and quality of tanzanite.
What is the best color tanzanite?
The best color tanzanite is a subjective preference and can vary depending on individual taste and the specific characteristics one finds most appealing. However, the most highly valued and sought-after color for tanzanite is a deep, intense blue with vibrant violet or purplish undertones. This vivid blue-violet color is often referred to as “velvety blue” and is considered the most desirable hue for tanzanite.
The deep blue color in tanzanite is due to the presence of vanadium, while the violet and purplish hues are attributed to the interaction of chromium and other trace elements. The combination of these colors creates a mesmerizing play of hues, particularly when viewed under different lighting conditions.
Tanzanite with a rich and saturated blue-violet color is highly prized and commands a premium in the market. However, it’s essential to choose a color that personally resonates with you and complements your style and preferences when selecting a tanzanite gemstone for your collection or jewelry piece.
Investing in Tanzanite
As tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the gemstone market, it offers an exciting opportunity for collectors and investors. The rarity of the gemstone, combined with its captivating color and limited source, makes tanzanite a unique and potentially valuable addition to any gem collection or investment portfolio.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best quality tanzanite possesses a deep, vibrant blue color with excellent clarity, precision cut to maximize its brilliance, and, ideally, a size that enhances its presence. As a gemstone of distinction and rarity, tanzanite continues to captivate gem enthusiasts and jewelry lovers worldwide. Its unique color-changing property and limited supply from a single source in Tanzania add to its allure and desirability. Whether cherished as a symbol of elegance or considered as a valuable investment, tanzanite stands as a testament to the Earth’s natural beauty and the enchantment of fine gemstones.
