Tanzanite, discovered in East Africa, Tanzania around the 1960's took the jewellery world by storm with the introduction of new colours, unique varieties and innovative variations. Other gems have failed to make an impact such as this.

The effect of heat on crystals was discovered by the Masai herders of cattle in the Merelani Hills, Northeast of Arusha where brown zoisite crystals lying on the ground with other crystals were caught in a fire caused by lightning and transformed into a brilliant blue colour. The Masai locals became the first collectors of Tanzanite.

Tanzanite, also recognized to be the ultimate prize of a gem safari comes in rich hues of purple and blue, comparable to the finest sapphires. It is known to be supremely rare and can be obtained from only one place, mainly the Merelani Hills of Tanzania which is also reputed to be the Shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. The source of its rich colour can be attributed to Trichroic which results in different colours when reviewed from different directions. Riveting shades of blue, purple and bronze add subtle depth to the colour. Mainly the colour bronze dominates but gentle heating (400-600 degree C) of the colour blue blooms and deepens in the stone.

Size does matter in the case of Tanzanite as the colour tends to be more intense in crystals above 10 carats. A cutter maximizes the purity of the crystal by cutting it to a smaller size. The stone thus cut will cost more per carat. Blue Tanzanites are comparatively expensive to purple ones. These rare gems are known to be fragile by nature and it is not suggested that they be set in a ring when strenuous activity is involved.

Tanzanites have a universal appeal because of its unique deep blue colour with a slight tinge of purple. It indicates an elegant dimension to the personality of the wearer as it requires élan to carry it well. It is little wonder that some of the people prefer it due to its exclusive qualities as the next best thing to diamond owing to it's versatility.

Care should be taken to never clean Tanzanite in a steamer, an ultrasonic cleaner/resize or repair a ring as the stone could shatter under the heat. Tanzanites are available in various shapes and sizes, usually in a size suitable for a necklace.

For Tanzanites in especially good qualities and larger sizes, almost any price will be paid now. Why is this stone so coveted, one might wonder. Is it the spectacular colour or the exclusive place of origin? Does the stone derive its value from being the new symbol of individuality? Well, whatever the reason might ultimately be, the answers to the mysterious feeling of grandeur can be acquired only when one has the tanzanite adorning her!.