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View PieceWhat tanzanite is
Tanzanite is the blue to violet variety of the mineral zoisite. In 1967 prospectors found the deposit in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, and according to GIA it is still the only place on earth where tanzanite is mined commercially. The stone was named for its country, and Tiffany & Co. introduced it to the world with a major campaign in 1968. Look at a tanzanite from different angles and the color shifts between blue and violet; cutters orient each stone to bring the most valued blue to the top. Our tanzanite guide tells the story.
Tanzanite, a December birthstone
Tanzanite is one of the December birthstones and the gem GIA lists for the 24th wedding anniversary. Its cool, wintry blue makes tanzanite birthstone jewelry a natural holiday-season gift, and earrings or a pendant need no sizing. Read about the December birthstones, see birthstones by month, or browse birthstone jewelry.
How to judge tanzanite color
Tanzanite ranges from a pure, rich blue to violet, and GIA notes that blue is considered the most valuable. Deeper color shows best in larger stones; small tanzanites tend to look lighter and more lavender. Nearly all tanzanite begins as brownish zoisite that is gently heated to reveal its blue-violet; the result is permanent, with no added durability concerns. Every tanzanite in this collection is natural.
Caring for tanzanite
Tanzanite rates 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and abrades easily, so GIA recommends it for earrings and pendants rather than daily wear in a ring. A tanzanite ring is best kept for occasions, with a bezel or halo for protection. Clean it only with warm, soapy water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are never recommended, and very high heat or sudden temperature changes can crack it. Store it apart from harder gems. Our Mohs hardness scale and jewelry cleaning guide go further.
| Gem | Mohs hardness |
|---|---|
| Diamond | 10 |
| Sapphire and ruby | 9 |
| Topaz | 8 |
| Amethyst and citrine | 7 |
| Tanzanite | 6 to 7 |
| Opal | 5 to 6.5 |
How to choose tanzanite jewelry
Start with earrings or a necklace. The halo studs and the cushion halo necklace frame the color with diamonds; the vintage and princess-cut pendants let the stone carry the piece. For a ring, choose a design you will wear for occasions. White gold and platinum keep tanzanite cool and icy, the most popular pairing, while yellow and rose gold warm its violet side. Rings are made to order in your size, so see the sizing guide first.
Tanzanite Jewelry at a glance
| Piece | Wear level | Best settings | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite rings | High | Bezel, halo, signet, five-stone | Best for occasions; made to your size |
| Tanzanite necklaces | Low | Halo, vintage, princess-cut | Chain length listed per piece |
| Tanzanite earrings | Low | Studs, halos, hoops, drops | No sizing needed; an easy gift |
Frequently Asked
Tanzanite Jewelry FAQ
What is tanzanite jewelry?
Tanzanite jewelry is any piece set with tanzanite, the blue-violet variety of zoisite. Ours includes rings, necklaces and earrings set with natural tanzanite in solid 14K white, yellow or rose gold, with platinum on most designs.
Is your tanzanite real?
Yes. Every tanzanite in this collection is natural, mined tanzanite, and each product page states it.
Where does tanzanite come from?
From the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, which GIA describes as the only place on earth where tanzanite is mined commercially. It was discovered in 1967.
Is tanzanite a December birthstone?
Yes. Tanzanite is one of the December birthstones, and GIA lists it for the 24th wedding anniversary. See the December birthstones.
Is tanzanite heat treated?
Nearly always. Tanzanite typically starts as brownish zoisite and is gently heated to reveal its blue-violet color. GIA notes the result is permanent with no added durability concerns.
Can you wear a tanzanite ring every day?
We would not recommend it for hard daily wear. Tanzanite rates 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and abrades easily, and GIA suggests earrings and pendants instead. Keep a tanzanite ring for occasions, in a protective setting.
Why does tanzanite look blue in some light and violet in others?
Tanzanite shows different colors along different crystal directions, and lighting shifts the balance too: it often looks bluer in daylight and more violet under warm indoor light. That play between blue and violet is part of its appeal.
What color tanzanite is the most valuable?
A pure, rich blue is considered the most valuable, followed by deep violet-blue. Pale lavender stones cost less. Larger stones show deeper color.
How do I clean tanzanite jewelry?
Warm, soapy water and a soft brush only. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, and keep tanzanite away from high heat and sudden temperature changes. See our jewelry cleaning guide.
Which metal looks best with tanzanite?
White gold and platinum keep tanzanite cool and bright and are the most popular choice. Yellow and rose gold warm the violet tones. Every piece comes in 14K white, yellow or rose gold, and most in platinum.
Is tanzanite rare?
Because it is mined commercially in only one small area, tanzanite's supply is limited, which is part of its appeal as a gift.
How do I choose the right ring size?
Every tanzanite ring is made to order in the size you select, and rings are final sale, so measure first with our sizing guide. Between sizes, choose the larger one for wider bands.