Rarer than diamonds and almost as famous, tanzanite has skyrocketed in popularity like a starlet in Hollywood in the short 50 years since its discovery. Yet, unlike the diamond which is plentiful in Africa and Russia, tanzanite mines are predicted to run dry roughly around 2022, giving this gem all the more desire and intrigue.
Tanzanite is an exquisite form of zoisite with color ranges from ultramarine to sapphire blue and appears with amethyst and sometimes even yellow hues in artificial light. An otherwise unappealing brown stone, the in-demand blue is created during a traditional heating process. It is often mistaken for sapphire, but the main difference between the two gems is tanzanite's brilliant range of purple and blue hues.
Power of the Stone:
Tanzanite relieves stress and enhances composure, poise and harmony. It is very balancing for highly active folk, mellowing out extremes in a personality. It helps us in understanding why things are happening in life giving us awareness from the balance.
Tanzanite is a "stone of magic" that facilitates spiritual awareness and stimulates insight. It is also said to relieve depression. Tanzanite is known to both dispel and transmute negativity.
Proper Care
*NOTE* Please contact a professional jeweler before cleaning any jewelry. The following information has been gathered from various sources and are only suggestions.
The beautiful violet tones of tanzanite are formed by a traditional heating process, so this gem should not be exposed to sudden temperature changes of either extreme heat or cold. However, the color is not affected by strong light. Ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and boiling may damage the stone or affect the color and should never be used. Instead, use warm soapy water, allow to air dry and polish with an untreated cloth. Avoid using hydrochloric or hydrofluoric acids.
Although tanzanite is a hard stone (Mohs hardness 6-1/2 to 7) it should still be handled like the rare gem that it is. If you struggle to avoid bumping or scraping your jewelry throughout the day, consider earrings as a safe option for displaying this gem. Avoid laying your tanzanite jewelry face down on hard surfaces after you take it off.
Jewelry
**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. f.Inguz does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
Information sources: The Crystal Bible by Judy Hall, 2003 Crystal, Gem and Metal Magic by Scott Cunningham, 2002 Love Is in the Earth: A Kaleidoscope of Crystals by A. Melody, 1991 Healing Crystals: The A - Z Guide to 430 Gemstones by Michael Gienger, 1997 Charms of Light: Healing with Energy, Light and Love by Caryl Haxworth Shimmerlings Firemountain Gems