Found only in one area of East Africa, Tanzanite is thought to be 1000 times rarer than diamonds due to its unique location. Tanzanite comes from Tanzanian mines located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Discover the top 5 facts about Tanzanite, which is one of the rarest gemstones known to man.
Tanzanite Is Only Mined In Tanzania?
Tanzanite is exclusively mined in Tanzania, in contrast to other gemstones that are found all over the world. Actually, only a 4 km section in northern Tanzania, at the foothills of the world-famous Mount Kilimanjaro, is home to the stunning blue gemstone. We named the blue gem tanzanite in honor of the location where it was discovered.
Tanzanite Is Rarer Than Diamond
Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones because it can only be found in one location on Earth. Tanzanite is reportedly 1,000 times rarer than diamond. Although the blue gem was found in 1967, tanzanite is thought to have created more than 500 million years ago! Geologists predict that all of the mines will be exhausted in the next ten to twenty years because to the limited supply and rising demand. Tanzanite is a very unique and uncommon gemstone because of these characteristics.
Tanzanite Gemstone Shows Trichroism
One of the rare gemstones with trichroism is tanzanite. When a crystal displays three distinct colors from various angles and with different light sources, it is referred to as trichroic. Depending on the crystal's orientation, tanzanite can exhibit blue, violet, or burgundy tones when held up against various light sources. Tanzanite's odd and distinctive attribute increases its appeal.
The Largest Ever Rough Tanzanite Was Mined In 2020
A small-scale miner named Saniniu Laizer discovered two rough tanzanite stones in June 2020 that weighed 5.8 and 9.2 kilogram each. After selling the stones to Tanzania's mining ministry for $3.4 million, he suddenly became a millionaire. The largest tanzanite stone ever found weighed 3.3 kgs before this.
Identified As Precious Heirloom
Given tanzanite's declining quantity and growing appeal, gemologists predict the gemstone will soon become a valuable family treasure. There won't be any more natural tanzanite accessible for first-time purchasers because the supply will run out in the next ten or so years. Therefore, this is the ideal opportunity to obtain the unique and exquisite diamond if you have your eye on it.
Some Extra Facts
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The official birthstone for December is tanzanite, which is also the anniversary stone for 24 years of marriage.
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Wearing tanzanite is thought to bring prosperity and good fortune.
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Tanzanite is a somewhat soft gemstone, with a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 out of 10.
