Tanzanite: A Mesmerizing History and Captivating Beauty – Part 2
The Plethora of Colours
Tanzanite’s colour range is indeed a remarkable characteristic. In its finest form, it exhibits a deep and intense blue, similar to sapphire but with a unique twist. In certain lighting conditions, especially under incandescent lights, Tanzanite can reveal its trichroism—a quality that showcases different colours when viewed along differing axes of the crystalline structure. From deep blues to soft violets, Tanzanite is an ever-changing canvas of colour that can appear almost ethereal.
In addition to its beauty, Tanzanite boasts the notable distinction of being a pleochroic gem. This means that it displays different colours when viewed from different angles. The combination of trichroism and pleochroism is one of the many aspects that make Tanzanite so captivating and appealing to gem connoisseurs.
Tanzanite’s Journey to Stardom
The story of Tanzanite would be incomplete without mentioning its meteoric rise in the world of high-end jewellery and fashion. It began its ascent in the 1960s, with Tiffany & Co., the renowned American jewellery brand, playing a pivotal role in its global recognition.
Tiffany & Co. recognized Tanzanite’s potential and the unique beauty of this gemstone. They dubbed it “Tanzanite” and introduced it to the world with a comprehensive marketing campaign. This move catapulted Tanzanite into the ranks of some of the most iconic gemstones, such as diamonds, rubies, and emeralds.
Tanzanite’s association with Tiffany & Co. lent it an air of exclusivity and prestige, making it a must-have for discerning jewellery buyers. Over the years, Tanzanite has graced the necks, fingers, and ears of countless celebrities and fashion icons. Its presence on the red carpet and in high-end fashion magazines has further cemented its status as a highly sought-after gemstone.
The Importance of Responsible Mining
As Tanzanite’s popularity surged, the Tanzanian government recognized the need to manage its production responsibly and sustainably. The government took several steps to regulate the industry and reduce illegal mining, ensuring that the profits from this precious resource benefited the nation and its people.
One of the significant developments was the establishment of the TanzaniteOne Mining company, which sought to bring order and transparency to the Tanzanite mining industry. TanzaniteOne played a vital role in formalizing the industry, implementing ethical mining practices, and supporting local communities.
Tanzanite Today: A Treasured Gem
Today, Tanzanite stands as one of the most cherished and sought-after gemstones in the world. Its beauty, rarity, and rich history continue to captivate those who encounter it. Whether it graces a stunning piece of jewellery or remains in its natural, uncut form, Tanzanite is a testament to the enduring allure of the earth’s treasures.
As Tanzanite continues to dazzle the world with its enchanting colours and captivating history, it remains a gemstone that embodies the wonder and splendour of the natural world, forever etched in the annals of gemmological history.