26/12/2025
Found only in Tanzania, tanzanite—a December birthstone—is prized for its vivid violet-blue to purple hues that shift with the light. Discover how to choose the perfect tanzanite for you:
Color: The most prized tanzanite displays a rich, saturated violet-blue to pure blue hue. Depending on lighting and viewing angle, it can also show flashes of purple or reddish purple due to its strong pleochroism. Stones with vivid, evenly distributed body color are the most desirable.
Clarity: Tanzanite is expected to have no visible inclusions. Transparent stones with good clarity and brilliance are more desirable, while those with eye-visible inclusions are less valuable.
Cutting Style: Tanzanite is usually faceted to maximize color and brilliance. Skilled cutting is important, as the gem’s pleochroism means its appearance changes depending on orientation. Well-proportioned cuts enhance its vivid blue hues.
Carat Weight: Tanzanite can be found in large sizes, but richly colored stones of substantial size are rare and highly desirable. Smaller gems—typically those under five carats—tend to display lighter or more lavender tones, as tanzanite’s most saturated color usually develops in larger crystals.
Heat Treatment: Most tanzanite begins as brownish zoisite that is gently heat-treated to reveal its signature violet-blue color. This stable, permanent enhancement is widely accepted in the gem trade.
Learn more about this December birthstone: https://bit.ly/4rUAQE4
