Fashion

Tanzanite is unique in that its color varies depending on the angle of light (called Trichroism). A typical Tanzanite crystal can vary from sapphire blue, violet, to sage-green depending on crystal orientation, and one of the first things buyers look for in a Tanzanite ring is the Trichroism exhibited by Tanzanite. Unfortunately, not all Tanzanite crystals are deep blue in color and most jewelers treat the crystal with heat to achieve the desired coloration. The only problem with heat treated Tanzanite crystals is that they loose their natural Trichroism to a certain extent.

Tanzanite is only found in certain areas of Tanzania, no other precious stone in the world can make such a claim. The Tanzanian government makes nearly annually from Tanzanite trade alone, and the resultant stones sell for close to in the jewelry market. Unfortunately, the rarity of Tanzanite has also fuelled speculation that its reserves might run out in the near future and there might not be another source of Tanzanite anywhere in the world.