It can be a bit of a problem buying all kinds of stones, but we can say that modern myths mean tanzanite can be worse. The classification of colour in particular, makes this stone set in Tanzanite Rings, Tanzanite Earrings and Tanzanite Pendants, a real challenge. Hopefully this little guide can help you gain a little confidence. Do not let the myths put you off ..,
Remember the four C's are so important, and this more than most other gems: colour, Clarity, Carat (weight) and cut.
Colour of Tanzanite
The deep blue of the Tanzanite is fantastic, and runs from ultramarine blue to light violet-blue. The most coveted colour is a blue surrounded by a delicate hint of purple, which has a particularly wonderful effect in sizes of over 10 carats. Tanzanite shows wonderful sapphire type blues in daylight, but deep and rich purples in candlelight. It is known as showing "Pleochroism". It is also naturally "trichroic", whereby showing different colours when viewed through each of its 3 crystal axes: blue, red-violet and yellow-green.
The colour of Tanzanite in reality depends on two things:
1. Cutter: They must decide what size and shape to achieve from the raw stones, and make sure they are free of cracks and defects before treatment. Larger stones usually a are of purple hues. Smaller stones usually deeper blues. After cutting and polishing, the gems then moves to the next step.
2. Heating: This is deemed necessary, and because it is permanent it is widely accepted by all the jewellery trade. Heating of about 500-700 degrees will bring the blue hues from the yellow-green natural colour. But the amount of heat and time must be monitored carefully so as not to be over-done.
There is only one universally accepted official classification system of coloured tanzanite, and this is GIA (Gemological Institute of America). But there are other trading schemes around you when you surf the Internet. Most of them are very subjective and vary considerably. One of the terms commonly used (and abused massively) is AAAA Tanzanite. It's a term used by the miners (and took on by some jewellery Television channels) to demonstrate the high quality Tanzanite.
Most likely classification used is of A to AAA (sometimes AAAA), with AAA the best and the deepest shade of blue.
Remember smaller stones will usually look paler because of its inability to hold the depth of colour compared to larger stones, no matter what the official grade.
Tanzanite Clarity
The clarity of the tanzanite, like all other gemstones, are officially classified as ranging from best VVS (very very slightly included) to VS (very slightly included), the SI-S2 (slightly included) and down to I1, I2, 13 (included).
Clarity is the second most important of the 4 c's when considering Tanzanite quality. Clarity simply refers to how inclusion-free a gemstone is. The basic rule with Tanzanite is that it should be at least eye clean but preferably loupe clean too. Top stones are loupe clean.
Tanzanite Weight in Carats
Tanzanite has been found in the 100+ carat range, but they are extremely rare. The stones are usually found in less than 1 carat to about 10 carats.
Tanzanite Cut
Although it has the smallest influence on the value of 4C's, it is always important. In the market tanzanite is found in a variety of shapes and cutting styles. Ovals and cushions are the most common, but rounds are also considered, as are other shapes, including emerald cuts, trillions, etc. Tanzanite in cabochon is not often seen. Cuts should be proportional: you do not want to pay for a stone with a lot of weight in the pavilion, for example when this weight will be invisible in a frame. There should always be a good width-depth ratio as with any other stone.
Whatever the cut, it should be protected in a suitable setting.
Tanzanite Prices
Almost any price you care to name has been asked - and paid! - If the tanzanite is of good quality and large size. What makes this stone so popular? It's just the amazing colour? No, it is also the exclusive source of its origin, and there is probably only a few years of mining left. Therefore the demand is rapidly outstripping supply.
The stone is particularly highly valued because it is in one place in the world. The idea of ??owning something with its exclusivity is the most important criteria in the way we view special gems.
For the above reasons, more than most other gemstones, to buy a good quality Tanzanite is a good investment for the future. Hopefully in any case!
My Summary
Tanzanite is a beautiful stone, particularly in sizes from 0.5 to 1.0 carats, but this is the size whereby it's getting expensive, especially the better grades. After this "sky is the limit" when prices are concerned.
It is not the strongest of gemstones, and is subject to cracking and dulling when worn all day without the care and attention needed. Remove it when you do something more arduous at home or work, and when the washing up etc. Clean with warm water and mild soap and a soft cloth, and save it away from direct sunlight. Just love and cherish it sensibly and it will always be incredible!
I hope my little insight will help you in some way with the purchase of tanzanite jewellery. Good luck and happy shopping!
Remember the four C's are so important, and this more than most other gems: colour, Clarity, Carat (weight) and cut.
Colour of Tanzanite
The deep blue of the Tanzanite is fantastic, and runs from ultramarine blue to light violet-blue. The most coveted colour is a blue surrounded by a delicate hint of purple, which has a particularly wonderful effect in sizes of over 10 carats. Tanzanite shows wonderful sapphire type blues in daylight, but deep and rich purples in candlelight. It is known as showing "Pleochroism". It is also naturally "trichroic", whereby showing different colours when viewed through each of its 3 crystal axes: blue, red-violet and yellow-green.
The colour of Tanzanite in reality depends on two things:
1. Cutter: They must decide what size and shape to achieve from the raw stones, and make sure they are free of cracks and defects before treatment. Larger stones usually a are of purple hues. Smaller stones usually deeper blues. After cutting and polishing, the gems then moves to the next step.
2. Heating: This is deemed necessary, and because it is permanent it is widely accepted by all the jewellery trade. Heating of about 500-700 degrees will bring the blue hues from the yellow-green natural colour. But the amount of heat and time must be monitored carefully so as not to be over-done.
There is only one universally accepted official classification system of coloured tanzanite, and this is GIA (Gemological Institute of America). But there are other trading schemes around you when you surf the Internet. Most of them are very subjective and vary considerably. One of the terms commonly used (and abused massively) is AAAA Tanzanite. It's a term used by the miners (and took on by some jewellery Television channels) to demonstrate the high quality Tanzanite.
Most likely classification used is of A to AAA (sometimes AAAA), with AAA the best and the deepest shade of blue.
Remember smaller stones will usually look paler because of its inability to hold the depth of colour compared to larger stones, no matter what the official grade.
Tanzanite Clarity
The clarity of the tanzanite, like all other gemstones, are officially classified as ranging from best VVS (very very slightly included) to VS (very slightly included), the SI-S2 (slightly included) and down to I1, I2, 13 (included).
Clarity is the second most important of the 4 c's when considering Tanzanite quality. Clarity simply refers to how inclusion-free a gemstone is. The basic rule with Tanzanite is that it should be at least eye clean but preferably loupe clean too. Top stones are loupe clean.
Tanzanite Weight in Carats
Tanzanite has been found in the 100+ carat range, but they are extremely rare. The stones are usually found in less than 1 carat to about 10 carats.
Tanzanite Cut
Although it has the smallest influence on the value of 4C's, it is always important. In the market tanzanite is found in a variety of shapes and cutting styles. Ovals and cushions are the most common, but rounds are also considered, as are other shapes, including emerald cuts, trillions, etc. Tanzanite in cabochon is not often seen. Cuts should be proportional: you do not want to pay for a stone with a lot of weight in the pavilion, for example when this weight will be invisible in a frame. There should always be a good width-depth ratio as with any other stone.
Whatever the cut, it should be protected in a suitable setting.
Tanzanite Prices
Almost any price you care to name has been asked - and paid! - If the tanzanite is of good quality and large size. What makes this stone so popular? It's just the amazing colour? No, it is also the exclusive source of its origin, and there is probably only a few years of mining left. Therefore the demand is rapidly outstripping supply.
The stone is particularly highly valued because it is in one place in the world. The idea of ??owning something with its exclusivity is the most important criteria in the way we view special gems.
For the above reasons, more than most other gemstones, to buy a good quality Tanzanite is a good investment for the future. Hopefully in any case!
My Summary
Tanzanite is a beautiful stone, particularly in sizes from 0.5 to 1.0 carats, but this is the size whereby it's getting expensive, especially the better grades. After this "sky is the limit" when prices are concerned.
It is not the strongest of gemstones, and is subject to cracking and dulling when worn all day without the care and attention needed. Remove it when you do something more arduous at home or work, and when the washing up etc. Clean with warm water and mild soap and a soft cloth, and save it away from direct sunlight. Just love and cherish it sensibly and it will always be incredible!
I hope my little insight will help you in some way with the purchase of tanzanite jewellery. Good luck and happy shopping!
About the Author:
Want the best deal on Tanzanite Jewellery? Visit www.GlobeJewellery.co.uk for Tanzanite Rings, Tanzanite Earrings, Tanzanite Pendants and more!
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