TANZANITE

Tanzanite was originally discovered in the year 1967 by Goan prospector, Manuel de Souza. It was initially named “blue zoisite”, but was later changed to tanzanite by the primary investing company and financiers, Tiffany & Company, in honor of its material origin. It is found in a very small area of Tanzania, roughly 4x1 miles (approximately the size of the Las Vegas strip), and was formed around 585 million years ago from intense heat, pressure, and tectonic plate collisions near what is now called Mount Kilimanjaro. These processes created the rare zoisite crystal (calcium aluminum silicate, with trace vanadium that gives it color), and is considered a geological fluke so specific to the region that it has almost no chance of ever recurring. This process, called regional metamorphism, morphed the existing igneous rocks into the unique gem that we know today. Gem grade material of tanzanite is world-renowned for its beautiful coloration and incredibly strong trichroic appearance; Trichroic minerals exhibit a rare phenomenon in which the material displays three distinctly different colors when back-lit and observed at varying angles. In this case, high-grade tanzanite can be observed to exhibit fantastic colors of blue, violet, red, and on very rare occurrences yellow, depending on the axis in which it is viewed. These physical characteristics can make the cutting processes very difficult, and the finished color of the gemstone will vary greatly depending on how the table cut reflects the light. While rough stones can display trichroic tendencies, heat treatments between 1,800 and 3,200 degrees Fahrenheit are often used in order to bring out the desirable blue and violet tones that are associated with the material. Along with turquoise, tanzanite is considered one of the honorary birthstones for the month of December. It is said that experts believe the mines could be depleted within a few decades, making it a potential heirloom gemstone.

TANZANITE METAPHYSICS

Metaphysically, tanzanite is considered a stone that stimulates the Throat, Third-Eye, and Crown Chakra’s. It is said to be a fantastic aid for transformation, spiritual growth, and higher consciousness, allowing its user to shape and create the world around them through powerful manifestation practices and intuitive action. Tanzanite is also said to promote new-beginnings and self-discovery. Physically, tanzanite is said to aid the body by reducing inflammation, as well as facilitating immune system response and healthy cell regeneration. It is also said to ease the mind of stress, depression, and anxiety.