Exploring the Magic of Tanzanite: A Journey Through Its Properties and Origin
In the eastern African country of Tanzania, a unique gemstone named tanzanite is mined, adding a touch of purplish blue brilliance to the global jewellery market. This precious gem, a variety of zoisite, is found only in the Merelani Hills, making it a rare and sought-after treasure.
Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, and since then, it has captured the imagination of gem enthusiasts worldwide. Its distinctive colour, resulting from trace elements of vanadium and chromium, sets it apart from other gemstones.
The mining sector in Tanzania, where tanzanite is a significant player, is projected to contribute positively to the country's economy. According to recent projections, the mining sector is expected to bolster fixed investment in Tanzania, supporting GDP growth projected at around 5.9% in 2025 [1]. However, specific details about tanzanite reserves and production longevity are not explicitly provided in the available search results.
Regarding the expected duration for tanzanite mines to produce gem-quality material, no precise timelines are given. Industry experts estimate that current known reserves could last a few decades under steady or increased production, but these are broad approximations and depend heavily on exploration success, mining scale, and market demand.
Tanzanite is a relatively abundant gemstone, with approximately 270 million carats mined per year, equating to 54 tonnes. There are four main commercial mines for tanzanite in Tanzania, separated into blocks A, B, C, and D. The majority of tanzanite on the market today is heat-treated to enhance its colour and marketability. Any crystals over 50 carats are considered large and are usually sold to mineral or crystal collectors rather than being cut.
The largest piece of tanzanite rough reported was found in 2005 by TanzaniteOne Mining Ltd, weighing 16,839 carats (7.43lbs or 3.37kg). The largest tanzanite ever sold at auction is the 423.56 Namunyak Tanzanite, which fetched over $300,000 USD at a charity sale in 2016.
Smaller tanzanite stones, around two to three carats, can achieve prices of between £350 to £580 per carat, while the average price of tanzanite over five carats is about £900 to £1,100 per carat. Comparing a number of tanzanite stones can help gauge the hue and saturation of colour.
Tanzanite crystals are usually prismatic and quite well-formed. The gemstone shows strong pleochroism, an optical property that makes it appear different colours when viewed from different directions. When buying tanzanite, it is advisable to use a 10x loupe to examine the cut, clarity, and any presence of chips or cracks.
For the most accurate and up-to-date projections on tanzanite mining volumes and mine lifespan, consulting specialized mining and geological reports or Tanzanian government mining authority releases would be necessary, as these details are not covered in the current search data.
In addition to tanzanite, the Gem-A Gemstone & Mineral Collection includes specimens like sugilite, stibnite, and decorative fossils.
[1] World Bank, Tanzania Economic Update, June 2021, https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/tanzania/publication/tanzania-economic-update-june-2021
- The field of gemmology, with its focus on the study and identification of gemstones, has been intrigued by the unique properties of tanzanite since its discovery in 1967.
- The foundational knowledge of tanzanite, including its geological characteristics and the optimal methods for mining and processing, has been a subject of numerous publications in the field of geology and mineralogy.
- For those interested in learning more about tanzanite, various courses and workshops are offered in the realm of education and self-development, providing insights into its mining, cutting, and grading.
- The financial aspect of tanzanite is not just confined to the mining sector; it expands to the lifestyle and entertainment industries as well, with tanzanite jewellery gaining popularity among celebrities and high-end consumers.
- In the broader context of science, tanzanite's discovery has opened doors for further research on medical-conditions related to color perception and optical properties, as well as its potential applications in technology and space-and-astronomy.
- News outlets covering general-news, business, and finance often report on the latest developments in the tanzanite industry, including market trends, new discoveries, and charitable efforts aimed at supporting local communities and conserving the environment.
- The sports world has even been influenced by tanzanite, with teams and athletes using the gemstone as a source of inspiration or sponsorship, further cementing its global relevance.
- To gain a comprehensive understanding of tanzanite and its industry, one would need to delve into a variety of resources, from specialized publications and academic journals, to mining reports, government projections, and even entertainment media.
