Tanzanite

Tanzanite From Northern Tanzania  0.73CT 

Tanzanite is a rare blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, just 70 km southeast of Arusha and near Mount Kilimanjaro. Discovered in 1967, it is famous for its vivid, multi-toned colors, with natural supplies projected to be depleted within the next 10 to 25 years. 

Because of its extreme scarcity, tanzanite is considered significantly rarer than diamonds. Here are a few key details about this highly prized gemstone: 

• Geographic Rarity: The only known deposit globally is limited to a narrow, 4-km strip of land divided into specific mining blocks near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. 
• Color and Heat Treatment: In its raw state, tanzanite usually appears as a dull brownish-burgundy color. To achieve the highly prized deep blue, violet, and purple hues, nearly all tanzanite goes through heat treatment. 
• Physical Characteristics: On the Mohs hardness scale, it ranks between 6 and 6.5. It also features perfect cleavage, meaning it should be handled and worn with care to prevent chipping or scratching. 
• Pricing: While rarer than diamonds, a lack of historical marketing means prices are generally lower per carat. However, high-quality, certified stones can still command anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the cut and carat weight. 

To explore verified grading, history, and lore, you can read the comprehensive guide provided by the Gemological Institute of America. Or www.dig-it-mining.com