Tanzanite Gemstone

Tanzanite

Was discovered in the Meralani (Merelani) Hills of Northern Tanzania in 1967, near the city of Arusha, Tanzanite is the blue or purple stone, the variety of the mineral zoisite. It is used as a gemstone. Tanzanite is noted for its remarkably strong trichroism, appearing alternately sapphire blue, violet, and burgundy depending on crystal orientation.

Legend says that it was Masai cattle herders that first noticed this stone some 30 years ago after a fire caused by lightening burned areas in Tanzania. The herders noticed that brown zoiscite crystals had turned a deep blue-purple due to the heat from the fire.

In October 2002, Tanzanite was added to the official birthstone list by the American Gem Trade Association as an additional birthstone for December. Tanzanite is a brittle stone and although it can be worn daily, care should be taken to protect it from knocks, pressure and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic to clean jewelry with tanzanite.

www.indonesiajewelry.com