Tanzanite Colors and Values

Tanzanite is a rare and valuable gemstone that is found only in Tanzania. Its unique blue-violet color and its rarity make it a highly sought-after gemstone. Tanzanite comes in a variety of shades and tones, and each has its own unique value and beauty.

Tanzanite is a member of the zoisite mineral family and is a transparent gemstone that has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It was discovered in 1967 by Manuel de Souza, a Portuguese prospector, in the hills of Tanzania. The stone was named after its country of origin and quickly became popular in the gemstone market.

The color of tanzanite is the most important factor in determining its value. The most valuable tanzanite has a deep blue-violet color, often with flashes of red or pink, and is called “AAA” or “Royal Blue.” This color is very rare and is found in only a small percentage of tanzanite mined. It is valued at around $1,000 per carat.

The second most valuable color of tanzanite is known as “AA,” and it is a slightly lighter shade of blue-violet. This color is still very valuable and is priced at around $500 per carat. The third most valuable color is called “A,” which is a lighter shade of blue-violet. This color is priced at around $250 per carat.

Tanzanite can also occur in a range of tones, from light to dark. The most valuable stones have a medium tone, which is not too light or too dark. A stone that is too light in tone will not have the same depth of color as a stone with a medium tone, and a stone that is too dark may appear black and lose its brilliance.

In addition to these different shades and tones, tanzanite can also exhibit different varieties of colors. For example, tanzanite can sometimes have a greenish hue, which is caused by the presence of iron. This type of tanzanite is known as “B-color” and is not as valuable as the blue-violet varieties. Similarly, tanzanite can also exhibit a brownish hue, which is caused by the presence of manganese. This type of tanzanite is known as “C-color” and is the least valuable of all.

In terms of their different types, tanzanite can be classified as either “Type I” or “Type II.” Type I tanzanite is the most common and has a normal level of clarity. Type II tanzanite is rarer and has a higher level of clarity, making it more valuable.

In conclusion, tanzanite is a highly valued gemstone that comes in a variety of colors and qualities. The most valuable tanzanite is the deep blue-violet color that is known as “Royal Blue,” while the least valuable is the brownish tanzanite known as “C-color.” Different tones of tanzanite can also affect their value, as can other factors such as their clarity. Whether you are a collector or just interested in gemstones, tanzanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone that is sure to impress.