December Birthstone: Tanzanite
Meet Tanzanite
Originally discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills below Mount Kilimanjaro, this stunning gemstone is also known as Blue Zoisite. Tanzanite in its original form, actually comes in a brownish-red colour. The amazing blue to violet colour of this gem is largely caused by trace concentrations of Vanadium within the zoisite crystal structure. When Tanzanite is heated, the state of vanadium changes and causes an increase in its violet and blue colour. 99% of Tanzanite sold today is heat treated to be the blue, purple or violet-blue colour we are familiar with. Tanzanite also has the fascinating ability to change its colour from blue hues in daylight to more violet shades in incandescent lighting. Because of its gorgeous blue, early sellers had compared Tanzanite to the naturally-blue Sapphire and it was sold as a more affordable gem alternative as compared to the latter. In recent years, Tiffany & Co, who promoted this new-found gem to the world and called it “the most beautiful blue stone to be discovered in 2000 years”, Tanzanite’s popularity has grown tremendously despite its relatively short history. Today, Tanzanite is considered a rare gem and is one of the best-selling coloured stones in the jewellery market.
Known as: Gemstone of the 20th Century
Physical Healing Properties
Tanzanite is said to be an excellent stone in promoting cell regeneration, strengthening the immune system and encouraging a quick recovery from illness, injury or the side effects of surgery. Believed to be effective in managing stress, nervous tension and anxiety, wearing Tanzanite is also known to relieve headaches and migraines.
Mind & Spirit Therapeutic Powers
Tanzanite is a highly inspirational stone that can help generate good loving energies and happiness and provides relief from worries and overcoming fears. It is an excellent stone in self-acceptance and coming to terms with oneself, allowing one to bring repressed emotions to the surface without the need to dwell on them unnecessarily.
Did you know …
Tanzanite was introduced to the world by Tiffany & Co. and had its name christened after its home country Tanzania.
Great For
This blue beauty of a gem can help one to get back on track easily, especially if one is constantly being distracted or interrupted. With the power to convert negative energies to positive ones, Tanzanite provides a bridge between what your heart desires and what your mind wants to achieve.
(Disclaimer: All information contained in this article, including those relating to health conditions, are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute or alternative for medical or healing purposes.)
Photo by Sabrinna Ringquist on Unsplash