Tanzanite Rough Stone .25"-.5"

Tanzanite Rough Stone .25"-.5"

Mineral Information:

Tanzanite is a rare and highly valued gemstone that is known for its vibrant blue to violet-blue color. It belongs to the zoisite mineral species and is specifically composed of calcium aluminum silicate. Tanzanite is named after its exclusive source, Tanzania, where it was discovered in the late 1960s.

Here are some key characteristics and features of tanzanite:

Color: Tanzanite's most notable characteristic is its stunning blue hue, ranging from deep blue to violet-blue. The color is often described as vibrant and captivating. Tanzanite is pleochroic, meaning it can exhibit different colors when viewed from different angles, including shades of blue, violet, and burgundy.

Clarity: Tanzanite is typically transparent to translucent, with varying levels of clarity. It may contain internal inclusions or natural growth features, which are sometimes referred to as "tanzanite silk." These inclusions can affect the stone's overall clarity but are often accepted as part of its natural beauty.

Cut: Tanzanite is usually faceted to maximize its brilliance and color display. Common cuts include round, oval, pear, emerald, and cushion cuts, among others. Precision and careful cutting are important to bring out the stone's best color and minimize potential weaknesses within the crystal structure.

Carat Weight: Tanzanite is available in a range of sizes, with larger stones being more rare and valuable. The gem is often cut into various shapes and sizes depending on the desired use, whether for jewelry or collector's pieces.

Unique Features: One unique feature of tanzanite is its ability to exhibit trichroism, which means it can display three different colors when viewed from different crystallographic directions. This characteristic adds to its overall allure and visual interest.

Tanzanite is highly regarded in the gemstone market for its beauty and rarity. It has gained significant popularity as a gemstone for jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Due to its limited supply and the exclusivity of its source, tanzanite is considered a prized and sought-after gemstone.

It's important to note that while tanzanite is a beautiful gemstone, it is also relatively soft compared to some other gemstone varieties. With a hardness of approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, tanzanite can be more susceptible to scratches and damage compared to harder gemstones. Therefore, it is recommended to handle tanzanite jewelry with care and avoid exposure to abrasive surfaces or harsh chemicals to maintain its beauty and durability.

Metaphysical Meaning:

Tanzanite is often regarded as a stone that connects one to higher realms of consciousness and spiritual wisdom. It is believed to facilitate access to higher dimensions, spiritual guides, and higher states of consciousness during meditation and spiritual practices. Tanzanite is also associated with enhanced communication skills and clarity of thought. It is believed to assist in effective communication, both in expressing oneself and in understanding others. Tanzanite is said to promote mental clarity, insight, and problem-solving abilities. Aligned with the throat and third eye chakra. 

Mineral Care:

Tanzanite, like many gemstones, has a moderate level of fragility and requires proper care to prevent damage. Here are some factors to consider regarding the fragility of tanzanite:

1. Hardness: Tanzanite has a hardness of approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. While this hardness is relatively durable for everyday wear, it is not as hard as gemstones like diamond or sapphire. Tanzanite can be susceptible to scratches, especially when it comes into contact with harder materials or abrasive surfaces.

2. Cleavage: Tanzanite exhibits a distinct cleavage plane, which means it has a tendency to break along certain planes of weakness within its crystal structure. If tanzanite is subjected to impact or stress on these cleavage planes, it can lead to fracturing or splitting. Care should be taken to avoid hitting or dropping tanzanite jewelry to prevent such damage.

3. Heat Sensitivity: Tanzanite is sensitive to high temperatures. Exposing tanzanite to extreme heat, sudden temperature changes, or thermal shocks can cause thermal stress and potentially lead to cracking or fracturing. It is advisable to remove tanzanite jewelry before engaging in activities that involve high temperatures, such as hot showers or using hot tubs.

4. Chemical Exposure: Tanzanite can be affected by certain chemicals and solvents. Contact with household chemicals, cleaning agents, or harsh chemicals can damage the surface of the gemstone or cause discoloration. It is recommended to remove tanzanite jewelry before using cleaning chemicals or engaging in activities that involve exposure to chemicals.

To protect the fragility of tanzanite and ensure its longevity, it is advisable to take the following precautions:

1. Store tanzanite jewelry separately from other jewelry or objects that may scratch or damage it.

2. Avoid wearing tanzanite jewelry during activities that may expose it to impact, such as sports or heavy manual work.

3. Clean tanzanite jewelry gently using mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning methods that can subject the gemstone to excessive heat or pressure.

4. Have tanzanite jewelry checked and professionally cleaned by a reputable jeweler periodically to maintain its beauty and integrity.

By following these guidelines and treating tanzanite with care, you can help preserve its beauty and minimize the risk of damage.

Disclaimer:

No information here is intended to diagnose, treat or cure ailments or afflictions of any kind. One should always consult a medical professional if a serious issue presents itself.