December’s Birthstones - Tanzanite

The second of December’s birthstones is Tanzanite. 

Tanzanite is a comparatively new stone in gemmology because it was just found in the 1960s in Tanzania.  It is found only in a small area of Tanzania. The American Gem Trade Association nominated it as a December’s birthstone in 2002 when it was recognized as a powerful violet flame crystal which facilitates healing and transformation.  

Tanzanite crystals possess a high vibration level which makes them very precious stones for metaphysical healing. It promotes the development of  psychic powers and accelerated spiritual growth. Tanzanite is believed to have mellowing properties and provide balance in busy, stressful lives.

Although tanzanite is valued for its deep violet-blue color, the fact is that it in reality it has to be heat treated to bring out the blue violet of the natural stone.  The color varies from blue to purple, but the most valuable tanzanites are medium dark in tone, vivid in saturation, and slightly violet blue. 

Tanzanite is renowned for its tendency to trichroism. This means it looks sapphire blue, violet or burgundy depending on the crystal orientation. Natural tanzanite is   a reddish brown in its untreated state and is very rare.  

 Tanzanite was first used as a more affordable sapphire substitute, but it has grown in popularity and now valued for its own beauty and brilliance. It makes fabulous affordable jewellery and is perfect for gifts.

It is interesting to note that TURQUOISE, the oldest gemstone known and TANZANITE the youngest, are both December’s birthstones.