Tanzanite, a gemstone of extraordinary beauty and rarity, has captured the hearts of many, including A-list celebrities and royals. But what exactly is Tanzanite, and what makes it so special? Let's delve into the allure of this stunning gem and uncover why it's become a favorite among the elite.
The Origin of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively new addition to the world of gemstones, discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. This unique and captivating gem, named by Tiffany & Co. after its country of origin, owes its rarity and exclusivity to its limited geographic source. Known to be rarer than diamonds, Tanzanite is exclusively found in Northern Tanzania, making it an ideal choice for creating striking jewelry designs. The only and largest Tanzanite mines are situated in the Merelani Hills, close to Mount Kilimanjaro and the city of Arusha.
The Vibrant Colors of Tanzanite
What distinguishes Tanzanite is its enchanting trichroism, which reveals different colors when viewed from various angles. This gemstone can appear blue, violet, and burgundy based on the crystal orientation and lighting. The most prized Tanzanite stones showcase a deep blue hue, comparable to the finest sapphires, enhanced by a vibrant violet undertone. Known for its stunning blue-violet shade, Tanzanite's trichroism determines its color by the position of the gem's table, displaying blue, violet, or a combination of both. This unique color trait makes Tanzanite jewelry highly sought after by enthusiasts. No other gemstone showcases such a captivating color blend, also known as pleochroism, meaning it appears differently from various angles. This diverse color display makes blue zoisite a versatile stone, complementing all skin tones and making it a favored choice for all types of jewelry.
Tanzanite in the Spotlight
Tanzanite, or blue zoisite, is one of the most exquisite gemstones in the world. It displays captivating hues of blue, purple, or a mix of both, making it a favorite among gemstone collectors and enthusiasts. Its unique beauty is perfectly suited for creating stunning fashion jewelry, making Tanzanite jewelry sets highly sought-after in modern times.
The purity of blue zoisite is another reason it is favored by jewelers, as Tanzanite fine jewelry shows no visible inclusions even under a microscope. Its unparalleled beauty, rarity, and versatility have made it a top choice for modern fashion jewelry, from statement necklaces to dazzling rings. Tanzanite adds elegance and sophistication to every piece.
The dazzling beauty of Tanzanite has also captured the attention of the rich and famous. A-list celebrities and royals, including Elizabeth Taylor and Beyoncé, have showcased Tanzanite in their exquisite jewelry collections, further establishing its status as a symbol of luxury and elegance.
As the popularity of Tanzanite continues to rise, we anticipate an increasing number of celebrities and royalty to embrace this extraordinary gemstone. Below is a list of individuals who have adorned Tanzanite jewelry:
Kate Middleton:
During the Garter Day service, Kate Middleton wore one of the rarest gemstones, Tanzanite. Her pendant featured a pear-shaped Tanzanite stone surrounded by 20 round brilliant-cut diamonds, known for their exceptional brilliance due to their many facets. Despite the different gemstone, the set perfectly complemented Kate’s engagement ring, which features a deep, royal blue sapphire.
Beyoncé:
Jay Z, renowned for his lavish jewelry purchases for wife Beyoncé, once again displayed his generosity when their daughter Blue Ivy was born. He gifted Beyoncé a stunning Tanzanite and Diamond ring, featuring a vivid blue Tanzanite center stone weighing between 8 and 10 carats. Jay Z's choice of Tanzanite, known for its blue hue, resonated with his favorite color and their daughter's name, Blue Ivy.
Sarah Jessica Parker:
Sarah Jessica Parker, a prominent figure in New York's social scene, was seen sporting a round Tanzanite and diamond pendant along with a stunning Tanzanite ring during the unveiling of the 2013 Tiffany and Co Blue Book collection.
Anne Hathaway:
Actress Anne Hathaway dazzled in a bespoke satin gown accessorized with Tanzanite and diamond earrings as she hosted the Oscars in 2011. Enhancing the blue hues, she adorned herself with Tanzanite and diamond earrings, a black onyx and diamond bracelet, and a diamond and sapphire ring.
Why Celebrities and Royals Love Tanzanite
There are several reasons why Tanzanite has become a favorite among the elite:
1. Exclusivity: With its singular source, Tanzanite is rarer than diamonds, making it a prized possession for those who value exclusivity.
2. Unique Beauty: The vibrant and shifting colors of Tanzanite offer a unique appeal that distinguishes it from other gemstones.
3. Versatility: Tanzanite's range of colors allows it to complement various fashion styles, from classic to contemporary.
4. Investment Value: Due to its rarity, Tanzanite is also seen as a valuable investment, with prices expected to increase as supplies diminish.
Caring for Tanzanite Jewelry
Owning such a precious gem requires proper care to maintain its beauty. Tanzanite ranks 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning it's relatively durable but should be protected from hard knocks and harsh chemicals. It's best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, and stored separately to prevent scratches.
Tanzanite is more than just a gemstone; it's a statement of elegance and rarity. Its captivating colors and exclusive origins make it a favorite among celebrities and royals, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to their jewelry collections. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast or looking to invest in a piece of history, Tanzanite offers a timeless appeal that's hard to resist.
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