Tanzanite, with its captivating violet-blue hues, has emerged as a beloved gemstone in the world of jewelry and fashion. It is celebrated for its rare and exquisite color, which ranges from delicate lilacs to deep indigos, reminiscent of the finest sapphires. While tanzanite has long been admired for its natural allure, recent advancements in gemstone technology have given rise to created tanzanite, offering a new and sustainable way to enjoy this remarkable gem. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the world of created tanzanite, its formation, characteristics, and the reasons behind its growing popularity.
The Genesis of Tanzanite: A Natural Wonder
Tanzanite, the enchanting violet-blue gem, traces its origins to a singular geological wonder. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania’s Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro, this gemstone’s formation is a marvel of nature. Deep within the Earth’s crust, tanzanite’s journey begins under immense heat and pressure. Brownish zoisite crystals undergo a transformative process, culminating in the vibrant blue gem we treasure. The geological forces at play infuse tanzanite with its unique and alluring color. This remarkable origin story, coupled with its striking beauty, adds to tanzanite’s desirability and mystique, making it a cherished gemstone in the world of jewelry and adornment.
See Also: The Enigmatic Beauty: The Valuable Allure of Purple Tanzanite
What Is created tanzanite?
Created tanzanite, often referred to as synthetic or lab-grown tanzanite, is a gem that replicates the natural tanzanite but is cultivated through innovative techniques within controlled laboratory environments. These methods typically involve melting powdered tanzanite and allowing it to crystallize slowly as it cools, a process known as the Verneuil method or flame fusion. Chemically identical to its natural counterpart, created tanzanite comprises aluminum, silicon, oxygen, and trace elements like vanadium and chromium, responsible for its distinct coloration. With the same optical and physical properties as natural tanzanite, created tanzanite offers sustainability, affordability, consistency, and availability, making it a popular choice among consumers and jewelers.
The growth process of artificial tanzanite
The growth process of artificial tanzanite involves replicating the conditions that occur naturally within the Earth’s crust. This is typically achieved through a method known as the Verneuil process, or flame fusion. In this process, powdered tanzanite material, composed of aluminum, silicon, oxygen, and trace elements, is melted at high temperatures. As the molten material cools, it gradually crystallizes, forming synthetic tanzanite crystals. This controlled environment allows for the precise introduction of specific trace elements that impart the gem’s characteristic blue to violet-blue color. The resulting synthetic tanzanite shares the same chemical composition and many of the physical properties of its natural counterpart, making it a highly desirable and sustainable gemstone option.
Physical Properties of Artificial Tanzanite
Artificial tanzanite, also known as lab-grown or synthetic tanzanite, shares many of the same physical properties as natural tanzanite. These properties are what give tanzanite its unique allure and make it a desirable gemstone. Here are the key physical properties of artificial tanzanite:
1. Chemical Composition:
Artificial tanzanite has the same chemical composition as natural tanzanite. It is primarily composed of aluminum, silicon, oxygen, and trace elements such as vanadium and chromium. This composition is responsible for the gem’s color and crystal structure.
2. Hardness:
Tanzanite, whether natural or synthetic, has a hardness of approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it suitable for everyday wear and resistant to scratching. However, it can still be vulnerable to hard impacts.
3. Refractive Index:
The refractive index of tanzanite is about 1.691 to 1.700. This property influences the gem’s brilliance and how it interacts with light, giving it its characteristic sparkle.
4. Dispersion:
Tanzanite exhibits dispersion, which is the ability to split white light into its spectral colors. This property contributes to the gem’s play of colors and adds to its visual appeal.
5. Specific Gravity:
The specific gravity of tanzanite typically falls in the range of 3.35 to 3.38. This property helps gemologists distinguish tanzanite from other gemstones with similar appearances.
6. Crystal Structure:
Tanzanite belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system. Its crystal structure features well-defined cleavage planes and distinct growth patterns that contribute to its appeal when cut and polished.
7. Color:
Artificial tanzanite can be created in a range of colors, but it is most commonly produced to mimic the blue to violet-blue hues of natural tanzanite. The coloration is achieved by introducing specific trace elements during the growth process.
See Also: What Color Is Tanzanite Naturally: Mystical Blue Beauty
8. Clarity:
Created tanzanite is often relatively free from inclusions, resulting in good clarity. Inclusions are the internal features or flaws within a gemstone that can affect its transparency and overall appearance.
Artificial tanzanite is valued for its ability to replicate the physical properties and visual appeal of natural tanzanite while offering benefits such as sustainability and affordability. Whether used in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, or other jewelry pieces, artificial tanzanite continues to captivate with its radiant beauty and versatility.
Advantages of Created Tanzanite
Created tanzanite offers several advantages that have contributed to its growing popularity among consumers, jewelers, and gem enthusiasts.
1. Sustainability:
Unlike natural tanzanite mining, which can have environmental and social impacts, created tanzanite is produced sustainably in controlled laboratory settings. This ethical aspect appeals to eco-conscious consumers.
2. Affordability:
Created tanzanite is often more affordable than its natural counterpart, making it accessible to a broader range of buyers. This affordability allows for larger and more elaborate jewelry designs.
3. Consistency:
Created tanzanite exhibits consistent color and quality, with fewer inclusions compared to some natural tanzanite specimens. This consistency makes it easier for jewelry designers to create uniform pieces.
4. Availability:
Natural tanzanite is limited to a single source in Tanzania, and its supply is finite. Created tanzanite, on the other hand, offers a reliable and consistent source of this exquisite gem.
The Appeal of Created Tanzanite in Jewelry
Created tanzanite is a versatile gemstone that can be featured in a wide range of jewelry designs.
1. Rings:
Tanzanite rings, whether created or natural, are popular choices for engagement rings and other special occasions. The gem’s enchanting color and durability make it suitable for daily wear.
2. Necklaces and Pendants:
Tanzanite’s elegant hues shine in necklaces and pendants. Solitaire pendants, as well as designs paired with diamonds or other colored gems, create striking pieces.
3. Earrings:
Tanzanite earrings come in various styles, including studs, dangles, and hoops. These versatile gems add a touch of sophistication to any ensemble.
4. Bracelets:
Tanzanite bracelets featuring created tanzanite stones offer a harmonious blend of color and sparkle, making them a stylish accessory for both casual and formal occasions.
In Conclusion: The Beauty and Promise of Created Tanzanite
Created tanzanite, a product of human ingenuity, embodies the exceptional beauty of its natural counterpart while offering unique advantages. Its sustainable production, affordability, and consistent quality have earned it a special place in the world of gemstones and jewelry. Whether in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, or bracelets, created tanzanite continues to captivate the hearts of those who appreciate its radiant beauty. As we celebrate the allure of created tanzanite, we embrace a gem that combines nature’s splendor with human innovation, promising a future of sustainable and ethereal elegance.
