Tanzanite Buying Guide: 7 Expert Tips for the Perfect Gemstone
Tanzanite is a gemstone of breathtaking beauty and extraordinary rarity. Discovered only in the 1960s in a single location on Earth, its mesmerizing violet-blue hue has captivated the world. Known for its remarkable pleochroism—the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles—Tanzanite is a true connoisseur’s gem. As a powerful astrological substitute (Upratna) for Blue Sapphire, it is also worn to harness the energies of Saturn. This expert guide provides in-depth knowledge on how to evaluate its unique color, understand its rarity, and buy an authentic Tanzanite stone with complete confidence.
The finest Tanzanite displays a deep, saturated violet-blue color.
Tanzanite at a Glance
| Gemstone Family | Zoisite |
| Astrological Role | Upratna for Saturn (Shani) |
| Metaphysical Properties | Spiritual Insight, Transformation, Calmness |
| Hardness | 6.5 – 7 on the Mohs Scale (Requires care) |
| Key Feature | Strong Trichroism (Pleochroism) |
The Astrological Significance of Tanzanite and How to Wear It
In modern Vedic astrology, Tanzanite is considered a highly effective Upratna for Blue Sapphire (Neelam), used to appease the planet Saturn (Shani). It is worn to gain discipline, overcome challenges, and attract professional success.
Astrological Rules for Wearing a Tanzanite
| Who Should Wear It? | Recommended for individuals seeking the benefits of Saturn without the intense initial impact of a Blue Sapphire. Especially beneficial for Capricorn (Makar) and Aquarius (Kumbh) ascendants. |
| Which Finger? | The middle finger of the right (working) hand. |
| Best Metal? | Silver is the most recommended metal. White gold is also a good choice. |
| When to Wear? | On a Saturday evening, during the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase). |
| Energizing Ritual (Prana Pratishtha) | Before wearing, the ring should be cleansed in Gangajal or raw cow’s milk and energized by chanting the Shani mantra “Om Sham Shanicharaya Namah” (ॐ शं शनैश्चराय नमः) 108 times. |
How to Buy an Original Tanzanite Stone: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Understand Pleochroism – Tanzanite’s Magical Trait
The most unique characteristic of Tanzanite is its strong trichroism. This means it can display three different colors when viewed from three different crystal directions.
Expert Insight: A raw Tanzanite crystal shows blue, violet, and a reddish-brown or burgundy color. Heat treatment removes the brownish color, leaving the stunning interplay of blue and violet. A skilled cutter will orient the stone to showcase the most desirable deep blue or violet-blue color face-up. This color-shifting nature is a key sign of genuine Tanzanite.
Step 2: Evaluate the Color
Color is the most important value factor for Tanzanite. The most prized stones have a deep, saturated, and vivid violet-blue or pure blue color. The more intense and saturated the color, the more valuable the stone.
Step 3: Assess the Clarity
High-quality Tanzanite is typically eye-clean, and the top grades are flawless even under magnification. As a Type I gemstone, it is expected to have very high clarity. Avoid stones with any visible inclusions, as they will detract from the beauty and value.
Step 4: Examine the Cut and Shape
A well-executed cut is crucial to showcase Tanzanite’s color and brilliance. The cut must be properly oriented to display the most desirable blue or violet hue face-up. Oval and cushion cuts are the most popular as they retain weight well while offering excellent sparkle.
Step 5: Understand Pricing Factors
The tanzanite stone price is influenced by its quality, especially its color.
- Color Saturation: A deep, vivid violet-blue color commands the highest price.
- Clarity: Eye-clean to flawless stones are the most valuable.
- Carat Weight: The price per carat for Tanzanite increases significantly for stones over 5 carats.
- Rarity: As Tanzanite is found in only one location on Earth, its rarity is a major factor in its long-term value.
Step 6: Verify Authenticity and Treatments
Nearly all Tanzanite on the market is heat-treated to produce its beautiful violet-blue color. This is a stable, permanent, and universally accepted treatment.
Crucial Information: While treatments are standard, authenticity is key. A certificate from a reputable gemological laboratory is the only way to be certain you are buying a natural Tanzanite and not a synthetic or imitation stone.
Step 7: Purchase from a Reputable Seller
Always buy from a trusted gemstone dealer who provides full transparency about their stones. A reputable seller will provide a certificate and will be able to explain the 4 Cs of the specific Tanzanite you are considering.
Why Trust Ratna Gems for Your Tanzanite?
At Ratna Gems, we are committed to providing authentic, high-quality gemstones with complete transparency. We are your trusted source because we offer:
- Certified Authentic Tanzanite: Every stone is certified by a recognized lab and comes with a Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee.
- Transparent and Honest Pricing: We offer competitive prices for genuine Tanzanite with full disclosure on quality.
- Unmatched Customer Support: Our experts are here to guide you, and our 7-day return policy ensures your complete satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tanzanite a good investment?
Many experts believe so. Because it is only found in one small location on Earth, it is considered a “generational stone,” meaning its supply is finite and is expected to be depleted within a few decades. This extreme rarity is likely to increase its value over time.
Is Tanzanite better than Blue Sapphire?
They are different stones with different appeals. Blue Sapphire is much harder and is a traditional precious stone. Tanzanite is rarer and exhibits a unique violet-blue pleochroism that sapphire does not have. For jewelry, the choice is personal. For astrology, Tanzanite is an excellent substitute for Blue Sapphire.
Why does my Tanzanite change color in different lights?
This is due to its strong pleochroism. It can appear more violet under incandescent (yellow) light and a purer blue under fluorescent or daylight. This magical color-shifting quality is one of the most beloved features of the gemstone.
How should I care for my Tanzanite jewelry?
Tanzanite is not as hard as sapphire, so it requires some care. Clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, and avoid sudden temperature changes. Store it separately to prevent scratches.
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