Tanzanite: A Rare Blue Wonder
Tanzanite: Awe-inspiring, rare, and dazzlingly blue. Discovered only half a century ago in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, its allure lies not just in its beauty but also in its exclusivity. Tanzanite is one of the world's rarest gemstones, found in just one place on earth, making it a gem collector's dream
Situated in one of the most picturesque and geologically fascinating regions of the world, the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro serve as the exclusive home to tanzanite. Unearthed in 1967 by Masai herders, its discovery revolutionized the gemstone market. This rare gemstone can only be found in this specific part of Tanzania, making it around 1,000 times rarer than diamonds. The unique geological conditions essential for the formation of tanzanite do not exist anywhere else on Earth, ensuring its status as a gem of unparalleled exclusivity.
Merelani Hills, Tanzania
The gemstone's journey from the rugged terrains of Tanzania to the luxurious showcases of high-end jewellery stores was championed by none other than Tiffany & Co. In 1968, the renowned jeweller introduced tanzanite to the world, giving it its name and bestowing upon it an aura of sophistication and elegance. The introduction of tanzanite by Tiffany & Co. not only highlighted the gemstone's remarkable qualities but also cemented its place in the accounts of fine jewellery.
What makes tanzanite so mesmerising is its pleochroism, the ability to present different colours when viewed from different angles. This fascinating optical property means a single piece of tanzanite can shimmer with vibrant blues, purples, and even hints of red, depending on the light source and angle. This dynamic play of colours makes each tanzanite gem a unique piece of art, captivating and ever-changing, much like the sky at dusk, this also remind of the Tanzania national bird the Lilac breasted roller with its colourful plumage blue, green and a distinctive lilac patch on its breast a bird tend to stay away from areas inhabited by humans, so consider it a rare treat when you see them
As tanzanite can only be mined in a single location, its availability is inherently limited. This rarity has contributed to its value, making it a sought-after gemstone in the luxury market. The Tanzanian government has implemented stringent regulations to control the mining and export of tanzanite, further enhancing its exclusivity. For collectors and investors, tanzanite represents not just a piece of jewellery, but a tangible asset with enduring worth.
Tanzanite is having a moment in the spotlight, dazzling in some of the latest high jewellery collections. Tiffany's Blue Book, celebrated for its innovation and craftsmanship, features stunning interpretations of Jean Schlumberger's iconic "Bird on a Rock." This design, a celebration of elegance for over two centuries, now gleams anew with Tanzanite's hypnotic blue.Equally captivating is Boghossian's 2024 "Palace Voyage" collection, where the Midnight Blue set stands out with its rich hues.
Meanwhile, British gemmologist and jewellery designer Karina Choudherie enchants us with her "Under the Sea" collection. Her breathtaking necklace showcases a stunning cushion-cut Tanzanite, surrounded by delicate briolette’s and brilliant diamonds.
The blue of Tanzanite leaves us completely mesmerised, establishing it as a rising star in high jewellery design. Many believe it has healing properties and benefits due to its high vibration and energy. This gem's allure and versatility go beyond therefore promising a vibrant future, captivating collectors and jewellery enthusiasts alike. Demand and desire to own this gem come from the rise of interest in ethically sourced single origin status.