Tanzanite
Stone

Tanzanite

Colour
Blue-violet
Care profile
Extra Care
About the stone

Tanzanite formed approximately 585 million years ago.

It was born from the same geological upheavals that raised the Kilimanjaro region.

It is found in only one place on Earth: the Merelani Hills in Tanzania.

It is a blue‑violet variety of the mineral zoisite.

It was only discovered in 1967, when a Maasai herder noticed the blue crystals.

Tiffany & Co. introduced it a year later and named it 'tanzanite'—because 'blue zoisite' sounded too much like 'suicide' in English and wouldn't sell.

It has a special kind of magic: it is pleochroic, meaning it shifts color (blue, violet, burgundy) depending on the viewing angle.

Its color ranges from deep blue to intense violet, with flashes that come alive in the light. Most stones are heat-treated to bring out the blue.

Associated with transformation, intuition, and calm, tanzanite is one of December’s birthstones.

With a hardness of 6–7, it is sensitive to knocks and sudden temperature changes.

It deserves gentle care—no ultrasonic cleaning. This regal hue is beautifully showcased in 925 silver and white gold.

Tanzanite care

How to care for it.

Care profile
Extra Care
Attention level
Cleaning
  • Only light hand washing (soft cloth, mild soap).
  • Completely avoid ultrasound and steam cleaning.
  • Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
Exposure precautions
  • Remove jewelry before bathing, swimming, or household cleaning.
  • Prolonged exposure to sunlight can discolor sensitive stones.
  • Avoid sudden temperature changes (risk of cracking).
Storage
  • Store in a lined box or pouch, separate from other jewelry.
  • For silver, use anti-tarnish strips.
  • Maintain a dry environment; you can add silica gel packets if needed.

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