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Dimensions:

9.4 x 7.3 x 5.4 mm

9.4 x 7.3 x 5.3 mm

Tanzanite is a blue-purple gemstone variety of the mineral zoisite, primarily known for its vibrant blue and violet hues. It is relatively rare, found only in a small region of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. Tanzanite's color can vary from pale blue to intense ultramarine with violet undertones, and it can also display different colors depending on the viewing angle due to pleochroism.

Here's a more detailed description:

Color: Tanzanite's most desirable colors are a rich, intense blue, often with violet or purple undertones. The color can vary due to pleochroism, meaning it can appear different colors when viewed from different angles.

Rarity: Tanzanite is found in only one location in the world: a small mining area in Tanzania near the Mererani Hills. This limited geographic origin contributes to its rarity and value.

Discovery and Naming: Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 and was named by Tiffany & Co. after its country of origin, Tanzania.

Pleochroism: Tanzanite is known for its strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle at which it is viewed.

Hardness: Tanzanite measures 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it relatively softer than gemstones like sapphire.

Treatment: Most tanzanite on the market today is heat-treated to enhance its blue color and minimize any undesirable brown tones.

Other Names: Tanzanite is sometimes referred to as "the blue zoisite".

Associations: Tanzanite is associated with the zodiac signs Sagittarius and Capricorn and is also one of the alternative birthstones for December