Tanzanite

Physical Information

Tanzanite is the blue to violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It was discovered in 1967 and is found in only one place in the world: the Merelani Hills in northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. Its colour comes from small amounts of vanadium. Tanzanite shows pleochroism, which means its colour changes with the viewing angle, from blue to violet to purple.

Most rough tanzanite is brownish when it comes out of the ground. Almost all tanzanite on the market is gently heated to bring out its famous blue-violet colour. This is a standard, accepted treatment. With a hardness of about 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, tanzanite is softer than sapphire and can chip. Protect it from knocks and sudden temperature changes, and clean it only with mild soapy water.

Metaphysical Properties

Tanzanite is known as a stone of transformation and spiritual growth. It is believed to support deep meditation, calm an overactive mind and help people listen to their intuition. Many people use it during times of change, when they want to find their true path.

Tanzanite is associated with the third eye chakra, the throat chakra and the crown chakra. This links it to inner vision, honest communication and spiritual awareness. Many people wear it as a reminder to speak from the heart, or hold it in meditation when they want to feel calm and clear.