Tanzanite, recognized as one of the primary birthstones for the month of December, is a gemstone of remarkable beauty and geological significance. Its signature blue-to-bluish purple to bluish violet color, often enhanced by heat treatment, has made it a popular choice in contemporary jewelry. As the newest addition to the December birthstone trio—alongside turquoise and zircon—tanzanite’s story is one of recent discovery, unique properties, and cultural symbolism. This article explores the gemological characteristics, historical background, formation, and care of tanzanite, drawing exclusively from the provided source materials to provide an authoritative overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
The journey of tanzanite from its discovery in the 20th century to its status as a modern birthstone is a testament to the dynamic nature of the gemstone market. Unlike ancient stones with millennia of lore, tanzanite’s narrative is tightly linked to modern geology and trade. Its color-changing property, where hues shift depending on the viewing angle, adds a layer of intrigue that distinguishes it from many other blue gemstones. Understanding tanzanite requires an examination of its scientific properties, the specific conditions under which it forms, and the reasons behind its rapid rise in popularity. The following sections delve into these aspects, providing a comprehensive look at this captivating December birthstone.
History and Lore
The history of tanzanite is exceptionally brief compared to that of other gemstones, which have been treasured for centuries. According to the provided sources, tanzanite is the newest birthstone for the month of December. Its discovery is a relatively recent event in the gemological world. The sources indicate that the gemstone was added to most birthstone lists in 1952. This date is significant as it marks the point when tanzanite began to be formally recognized within the context of birthstone traditions.
The journey to becoming a birthstone involved a shift in market trends and consumer preferences. The first modern birthstone list was released in the United States by the National Association of Jewelers in 1912. This list aimed to replace opaque stones like bloodstone and sardonyx with clearer, more brilliant gems that appealed to contemporary tastes. Over time, birthstone lists continued to evolve. The introduction of spinel as a modern birthstone for August in 2016 is cited as a more recent example of this ongoing adaptation. The addition of tanzanite in 1952 fits within this historical pattern of birthstone lists being updated to reflect marketing trends, popularity, and the availability of new gemstones.
While the sources do not provide extensive ancient lore or metaphysical beliefs specific to tanzanite, they do touch upon the broader concept of birthstone symbolism. For instance, other gemstones are described with specific meanings; aquamarine is said to evoke "blue skies and calming waters," while sapphire is associated with "wisdom, loyalty and nobility." However, for tanzanite, the provided materials focus primarily on its physical characteristics and market introduction rather than historical legends or attributed powers. This lack of historical depth is consistent with its status as a modern discovery, lacking the centuries of cultural integration that stones like turquoise possess.
Turquoise, another December birthstone, illustrates the contrast. The sources note that turquoise has been used as a gemstone for thousands of years, with Native Americans in the southwestern United States using it over 2000 years ago for beads, pendants, and inlay work. This deep historical and cultural integration is not yet present for tanzanite. The lore surrounding tanzanite, as presented in the sources, is therefore primarily its story of discovery and its rapid ascent into the gemstone market as a prized blue gem.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite's geological story is as unique as its color. The sources specify that tanzanite is mined around the world, but its formation is linked to very specific conditions. While the provided materials do not detail the exact geological process, they emphasize its status as a mined gemstone with global sources. This broad statement suggests that tanzanite deposits are not limited to a single location, though the most significant and well-known sources are not explicitly named in the chunks.
The formation of tanzanite is intrinsically linked to the heat treatment that defines its commercial color. The sources state that most tanzanite sold in jewelry today has a blue to bluish purple to bluish violet color that is produced by heat treatment. This indicates that the natural state of the mineral, which is typically brownish, is transformed into the desirable blue hues through a controlled heating process. This treatment is a critical part of tanzanite's geological and commercial identity, distinguishing it from gemstones that are typically sold in their natural color state.
The mining of tanzanite contributes to its perception as a rare gemstone. The sources identify tanzanite, along with alexandrite (June birthstone), as among the rarest gems in the world. This rarity is a key factor in its market value and allure. The geographic concentration of its primary deposits, while not detailed in the provided text, is implied by its rarity. Unlike gemstones with widespread mining locations, tanzanite's scarcity suggests a more limited source, which aligns with its reputation for being a rare and valuable stone.
The relationship between tanzanite and other December birthstones highlights the diversity of blue gems available. While turquoise is an opaque mineral prized for its unique matrix patterns, and zircon is known for its brilliance and fire, tanzanite offers a transparent, vivid blue that is often compared to sapphire. The sources note that zircon was once used as an alternative to diamond due to its high luster and fire, and blue is the most popular zircon color, though it is often produced by treatment. This comparison underscores the competitive landscape of the gemstone market, where tanzanite has carved out a niche based on its distinctive color and clarity.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite possesses a set of gemological properties that make it suitable for jewelry, though it requires careful handling. The sources provide specific information about its physical characteristics, which are essential for understanding its durability and care.
Color: The defining feature of tanzanite is its color range. The sources describe it as "blue to bluish purple to bluish violet." A unique and important property is its color-change effect: "Its color has an interesting feature - it changes depending upon the angle of viewing." This pleochroism means that a single stone can display different shades of blue and violet when viewed from different directions, adding to its visual complexity and value.
Clarity and Cut: As a transparent gemstone, tanzanite is typically faceted to maximize its brilliance and color. The sources do not specify typical inclusions or clarity grades for tanzanite, but its description as a gem sold in jewelry implies a standard of clarity acceptable for fine gems. Unlike opaque stones like turquoise, which are often cut into cabochons, tanzanite's transparency allows for faceted cuts that enhance its light performance.
Hardness and Durability: The sources provide general information about the hardness of various birthstones. Garnet, for example, has a Mohs hardness rating of around 7. However, the sources also warn that several gemstones are "prone to breakage." Specifically, tanzanite is listed among gemstones that "all have perfect cleavage and will break easily." This is a critical property. Perfect cleavage means the stone has internal planes along which it can split if struck with sufficient force at the right angle. This makes tanzanite more susceptible to damage than harder gems like diamond or sapphire. Its relatively low hardness and perfect cleavage necessitate protective settings and careful wear, especially in rings or bracelets subject to impact.
Chemical Composition and Other Properties: The provided sources do not specify the chemical formula or other advanced gemological data (such as refractive index or specific gravity) for tanzanite. The information is focused on practical aspects relevant to consumers and jewelers, such as color, treatment, and durability. This aligns with the sources' overall style, which tends to prioritize accessible information over detailed scientific data.
To summarize the key properties mentioned in the sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue to bluish purple to bluish violet; exhibits color change depending on viewing angle. |
| Treatment | Most commercial tanzanite is heat-treated to achieve its blue color. |
| Durability | Has perfect cleavage, making it prone to breakage upon impact. |
| Rarity | Considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world. |
| Birthstone Status | A modern birthstone for December, added to lists in 1952. |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism associated with tanzanite, as presented in the provided sources, is largely modern and linked to its color and rarity. While the sources do not attribute ancient myths or specific metaphysical powers to tanzanite, they do place it within the broader context of birthstone symbolism. For instance, other December birthstones like turquoise have deep cultural roots, being "an important part of Southwestern culture" in the United States. Zircon, another December stone, is noted for its diamond-like fire and was once used as a diamond alternative, imbuing it with connotations of brilliance and value.
For tanzanite, the primary symbolism derives from its physical attributes. Its stunning blue color is often associated with calmness, clarity, and depth, similar to the associations given to other blue gemstones like aquamarine. The sources mention that December birthstones "all have their own unique take on the color blue, allowing you to choose the birthstone that best fits your style." This positions tanzanite's symbolism as one of personal choice and aesthetic preference rather than traditional lore.
Furthermore, the rarity of tanzanite contributes to its symbolic value. Being identified as one of the rarest gems in the world, it carries an inherent prestige. For individuals born in December, wearing tanzanite can be a statement of uniqueness and distinction. The modern context of its symbolism is reinforced by its status as a relatively new addition to birthstone lists, making it a gem for contemporary times.
In contrast, the sources provide more detailed symbolic information for other stones. For example, amethyst is said to "cure drunkenness and make you quick-witted in business," and garnet symbolizes "many different positive emotions." The absence of such specific lore for tanzanite in the provided materials suggests that its symbolic meaning is still evolving and is more closely tied to its gemological properties and market presence than to historical tradition.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential for maintaining the beauty and integrity of tanzanite, given its specific gemological properties. The sources provide clear guidance on handling and cleaning based on its physical characteristics, particularly its perfect cleavage and relative softness.
Handling and Wear: Due to its perfect cleavage, tanzanite is susceptible to breaking if knocked against a hard surface. The sources explicitly state that tanzanite "will break easily." This makes it less suitable for everyday jewelry items like rings or bracelets that are prone to impact. It is better suited for pendants or earrings, where the risk of physical trauma is lower. When setting tanzanite in jewelry, jewelers often use protective settings, such as bezel settings, to minimize the exposure of the stone's edges.
Cleaning: While the sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for tanzanite, they do offer general advice for gemstones with low hardness. For example, they note that "pearl (June), opal (October), and turquoise (December) all have a low hardness and are easily scratched." Although tanzanite's hardness is not specified, its perfect cleavage and the general caution for delicate gems imply that it requires gentle care. It is advisable to clean tanzanite with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners should be avoided, as the vibrations and heat can potentially damage the stone or cause fractures along its cleavage planes.
Storage: To prevent scratches and physical damage, tanzanite should be stored separately from other jewelry, preferably in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box. Keeping it away from harder gemstones like diamond or sapphire will help maintain its polish and surface integrity.
Disclosure and Purchase Considerations: The sources emphasize the importance of transparency when purchasing gemstones. They highlight that "it is very important for the salesperson, product labeling, and receipt to clearly state that the birthstones are man-made and not natural gems." While this advice is framed in the context of lab-created stones, it underscores the broader principle of informed purchasing. For tanzanite, buyers should inquire about any treatments (primarily heat treatment) and ensure they are receiving a natural stone. The sources note that most tanzanite is heat-treated, which is a standard and accepted practice in the gem trade, but disclosure is still key.
Conclusion
Tanzanite stands out as a distinctive and captivating member of the December birthstone family. Its journey from a recent discovery to a cherished gemstone is marked by its unique color-changing properties, rarity, and modern appeal. While it lacks the ancient lore of stones like turquoise, its symbolism is rooted in its stunning blue hues and exceptional scarcity. The gemological properties of tanzanite, particularly its perfect cleavage, necessitate careful handling and informed purchasing decisions. As a product of specific geological conditions and often enhanced by heat treatment, tanzanite represents the intersection of natural beauty and human ingenuity. For those born in December, it offers a vibrant and contemporary choice that embodies both elegance and rarity.