Tanzania, a land of extraordinary landscapes and diverse cultures, is home to one of the most enchanting and rarest gems on Earth: Tanzanite. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, near Merelani, lies Tanzanite One—a mining operation that digs deep into the earth to extract this precious blue-violet gem. But what makes Tanzanite so special, and what is it like to go underground in search of these treasures?

The Allure of Tanzanite

Tanzanite, a rare gemstone only found in a single place on Earth, has captivated gem enthusiasts and jewelers since its discovery in the 1960s. Its stunning color, which can range from a deep sapphire blue to a rich violet, is caused by the presence of vanadium and its reaction to light. The gemstone’s scarcity, combined with its mesmerizing hues, has made it one of the most sought-after gems in the world.

Legend has it that Tanzanite was first discovered by a Maasai tribesman who noticed the vibrant blue stones sparkling in the sunlight after a lightning strike set the surrounding grassland on fire. Whether or not this tale is true, the gemstone’s origin adds to the mystique and allure of Tanzanite.

Journeying to the Heart of the Earth

To truly appreciate Tanzanite, one must embark on a journey deep into the earth where this precious stone is extracted. Tanzanite One, is the largest and most prominent mining company in the region.

The trip to Tanzanite One begins in Arusha, a bustling city that serves as the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. From Arusha, a short drive through the stunning Tanzanian countryside leads to the small town of Mererani – also commonly known as Merelani. Here, the landscape is a mix of rolling hills, scattered acacia trees, and the imposing presence of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.

Upon arrival at the Tanzanite One mine, visitors are greeted by the sight of a well-guarded entrance, a reminder of the valuable treasures hidden within. The atmosphere is a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation as we prepare for the journey underground.

Descending into the Mine

Equipped with a helmet, headlamp, and protective gear, the descent into the mine begins. The elevator, a creaky metal contraption, rattles and groans as it lowers its passengers into the depths of the earth. The air grows warmer and the light dimmer with each passing meter, heightening the sense of adventure and mystery.

As the elevator reaches the bottom, around 800 meters below the surface, the true scale of the operation becomes apparent. The underground world of Tanzanite One is a labyrinth of tunnels, with wooden supports holding back the immense weight of the earth above. The tunnels are narrow, and the walls glisten with moisture.

The miners, clad in their dusty work clothes, move with efficiency through the dark passages. They use hand drills and pickaxes to carefully extract the rough Tanzanite from the surrounding rock. There is a palpable sense of pride among the miners—they know they are uncovering something truly special.

The Thrill of Discovery

Every now and then, the quiet is broken by a shout of excitement as a miner uncovers a vein of Tanzanite. The stones, still encased in rock, are carefully extracted and placed in small pouches. Although the gems are rough and unpolished, their vibrant color is unmistakable even in the dim light of the mine.

For visitors, witnessing the moment of discovery is an unforgettable experience. The raw beauty of the Tanzanite, combined with the realization of just how deep within the earth these gems are found, adds a new level of appreciation for this rare gemstone.

From Mine to Market

After the gems are extracted, they are brought to the surface, where they undergo a meticulous sorting and grading process. Only the highest-quality stones are selected for cutting and polishing, a process that reveals the full brilliance and color of the Tanzanite.

From here, the stones make their way to the international market, where they are transformed into stunning pieces of jewelry. The journey of Tanzanite—from deep within the earth to the sparkling showcase of a jeweler—underscores the rarity and value of this incredible gemstone.

A Journey to Remember

For those who visit Tanzanite One, the experience is more than just a descent into a mine; it’s a journey into the heart of Tanzania’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The chance to see Tanzanite in its raw form, to witness the labor and dedication that goes into its extraction, and to understand the significance of this gemstone to the local community is something that stays with you long after you’ve returned to the surface.

As you leave the mine, blinking in the bright Tanzanian sunlight, you can’t help but feel a deep sense of awe and respect for the land and its people. Tanzanite One offers not just a glimpse into the world of gemstones but a profound connection to the earth and the hidden treasures it holds.

 

[Alexander and Stefan Kreis inside Tanzanite One – Picture by KREIS]

[A mining shaft inside Tanzanite One – Picture by KREIS]

[A picture of the Tanzanian landscape taken on the way to the mine – Picture by KREIS]