It can be a real problem buying all kinds of stones, but we can say that modern myths mean tanzanite can be worse. The classification of colour in particular, makes this stone a challenge. Hopefully this little guide can help you gain a little confidence. Do not let the myths put you off ..,
Remember the four C's are so important, and this more than most other gems: colour, Clarity, Carat (weight) and cut.
Colour of Tanzanite
The deep blue of the Tanzanite is fantastic, and runs from ultramarine blue to light violet-blue. The most coveted colour is a blue surrounded by a delicate hint of purple, which has a particularly wonderful effect in sizes of over 10 carats. Tanzanite shows wonderful sapphire type blues in daylight, but deep and rich purples in candlelight. It is known as showing "Pleochroism". It is also naturally "trichroic", whereby showing different colours when viewed through each of its 3 crystal axes: blue, red-violet and yellow-green.
The Colour of Tanzanite is a reality dependent upon two things:
1. Cutter: They must decide what size and shape to achieve from the raw stones, and make sure they are free of cracks and defects before treatment. Larger stones usually a are of purple hues. Smaller stones usually deeper blues. After cutting and polishing, the gems then moves to the next step.
2. Heating: This is deemed necessary, and because it is permanent it is widely accepted by all the jewellery trade. Heating of about 500-700 degrees will bring the blue hues from the yellow-green natural colour. But the amount of heat and time must be monitored carefully so as not to be over-done.
There is only one universally accepted system for the official classification of coloured tanzanite, and this is the system of the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). But there are other trade systems around you will see when you surf the Internet. Most of them are very subjective and vary widely. One of the terms commonly used (and abused massively) is AAAA tanzanite. It is a term used by the miners (and taken over by some television jewellery channels) to denote the absolute top quality for Tanzanite.
Most likely classification used is of A to AAA (sometimes AAAA), with AAA the best and the deepest shade of blue.
Remember the smaller stones usually appear lighter because it is not able to maintain the colour saturation compared to the larger stones, regardless of the class of grading.
Tanzanite Clarity
The clarity of Tanzanite, as with all other gemstones, is officially classified as ranging from the best VVS (very, very, slightly included), to VS (very, slightly included), SI-S2 (slightly included), and down to I1,I2,13 (included).
Clarity is the second of the 4 C's when considering the quality of tanzanite. Clarity simply refers to how inclusion free is a gem. The basic rule with Tanzanite is that it should be at eye clean, preferably with a magnifying glass. A top stone is loupe clean.
Tanzanite Weight in Carats
Tanzanite has been found in the 100+ carat range, but they are extremely rare. The stones are usually found in less than 1 carat to about 10 carats.
Cut of Tanzanite
Although it has the least impact on the value of 4C's, it is always important. Tanzanite can be found on the market in various shapes and cutting styles. Ovals and cushions are the most common, but rounds are considered, as well as other forms, such as emerald cuts, trillions, etc. Tanzanite in cabochons is not often seen. Cuts should be proportional and you should not want to pay for a stone with lots of weight in the pavilion, when this will be invisible in the frame. It should always be a good ratio of width to depth in the stone.
Whatever the cut, it should be protected in a suitable setting.
Tanzanite Prices
Almost any price you care to name has been asked - and paid! Especially if the tanzanite is of good quality and large size. What makes this stone so popular? It is not just the incredible colour. There is also the exclusive source of origin and that there are probably only a few years of mining left. Therefore, demand is rapidly outpacing supply.
The stone is particularly highly valued because it is mined in only a single place in the world. The idea of ??owning something with its exclusivity is the most important criteria in the way we perceive special gems.
For these reasons, more than most other gemstones, to buy a good quality tanzanite is a good investment for the future. Hopefully anyway!
My Summary
Tanzanite is a beautiful stone, particularly in sizes from 0.5 to 1.0 carats, but this is the size whereby it's getting expensive, especially the better grades. After this "sky is the limit" when prices are concerned.
It is not the strongest of gemstones, and is subject to cracking and dulling when worn all day without the care and attention needed. Remove it when you do something more arduous at home or work, and when the washing up etc. Clean with warm water and mild soap and a soft cloth, and save it away from direct sunlight. Just love and cherish it sensibly and it will always be incredible!
I hope this little knowledge I have passed on will help in some way with the purchase of your Tanzanite jewellery. Good luck and happy shopping!
JSS
Remember the four C's are so important, and this more than most other gems: colour, Clarity, Carat (weight) and cut.
Colour of Tanzanite
The deep blue of the Tanzanite is fantastic, and runs from ultramarine blue to light violet-blue. The most coveted colour is a blue surrounded by a delicate hint of purple, which has a particularly wonderful effect in sizes of over 10 carats. Tanzanite shows wonderful sapphire type blues in daylight, but deep and rich purples in candlelight. It is known as showing "Pleochroism". It is also naturally "trichroic", whereby showing different colours when viewed through each of its 3 crystal axes: blue, red-violet and yellow-green.
The Colour of Tanzanite is a reality dependent upon two things:
1. Cutter: They must decide what size and shape to achieve from the raw stones, and make sure they are free of cracks and defects before treatment. Larger stones usually a are of purple hues. Smaller stones usually deeper blues. After cutting and polishing, the gems then moves to the next step.
2. Heating: This is deemed necessary, and because it is permanent it is widely accepted by all the jewellery trade. Heating of about 500-700 degrees will bring the blue hues from the yellow-green natural colour. But the amount of heat and time must be monitored carefully so as not to be over-done.
There is only one universally accepted system for the official classification of coloured tanzanite, and this is the system of the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). But there are other trade systems around you will see when you surf the Internet. Most of them are very subjective and vary widely. One of the terms commonly used (and abused massively) is AAAA tanzanite. It is a term used by the miners (and taken over by some television jewellery channels) to denote the absolute top quality for Tanzanite.
Most likely classification used is of A to AAA (sometimes AAAA), with AAA the best and the deepest shade of blue.
Remember the smaller stones usually appear lighter because it is not able to maintain the colour saturation compared to the larger stones, regardless of the class of grading.
Tanzanite Clarity
The clarity of Tanzanite, as with all other gemstones, is officially classified as ranging from the best VVS (very, very, slightly included), to VS (very, slightly included), SI-S2 (slightly included), and down to I1,I2,13 (included).
Clarity is the second of the 4 C's when considering the quality of tanzanite. Clarity simply refers to how inclusion free is a gem. The basic rule with Tanzanite is that it should be at eye clean, preferably with a magnifying glass. A top stone is loupe clean.
Tanzanite Weight in Carats
Tanzanite has been found in the 100+ carat range, but they are extremely rare. The stones are usually found in less than 1 carat to about 10 carats.
Cut of Tanzanite
Although it has the least impact on the value of 4C's, it is always important. Tanzanite can be found on the market in various shapes and cutting styles. Ovals and cushions are the most common, but rounds are considered, as well as other forms, such as emerald cuts, trillions, etc. Tanzanite in cabochons is not often seen. Cuts should be proportional and you should not want to pay for a stone with lots of weight in the pavilion, when this will be invisible in the frame. It should always be a good ratio of width to depth in the stone.
Whatever the cut, it should be protected in a suitable setting.
Tanzanite Prices
Almost any price you care to name has been asked - and paid! Especially if the tanzanite is of good quality and large size. What makes this stone so popular? It is not just the incredible colour. There is also the exclusive source of origin and that there are probably only a few years of mining left. Therefore, demand is rapidly outpacing supply.
The stone is particularly highly valued because it is mined in only a single place in the world. The idea of ??owning something with its exclusivity is the most important criteria in the way we perceive special gems.
For these reasons, more than most other gemstones, to buy a good quality tanzanite is a good investment for the future. Hopefully anyway!
My Summary
Tanzanite is a beautiful stone, particularly in sizes from 0.5 to 1.0 carats, but this is the size whereby it's getting expensive, especially the better grades. After this "sky is the limit" when prices are concerned.
It is not the strongest of gemstones, and is subject to cracking and dulling when worn all day without the care and attention needed. Remove it when you do something more arduous at home or work, and when the washing up etc. Clean with warm water and mild soap and a soft cloth, and save it away from direct sunlight. Just love and cherish it sensibly and it will always be incredible!
I hope this little knowledge I have passed on will help in some way with the purchase of your Tanzanite jewellery. Good luck and happy shopping!
JSS
About the Author:
I recommend you visit www.GlobeJewellery.co.uk if you wish to get a great deal on Stunning Tanzanite Jewellery and an amazing selection of Beautiful Tanzanite Rings, Tanzanite Earrings and Tanzanite Pendants. Good Luck!