"This is the light of the mind, cold and planetary. The trees of the mind are black. The light is blue.”
– Sylvia Plath

The vivid blue gemstone, tanzanite, has long been coveted for its beauty. It is not only a powerful December birthstone, but also a gem with a rich history and diverse metaphorical and geological qualities. In fact, the story of its occurrence and nomenclature is also fascinating.

Tanzanite occurs in Merlani, a volcanic basin in Tanzania, an East African nation. The basin lies in the African Rift Valley, at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The stone was discovered here only after 1962. This was when a brushfire caused by lightning heated some brown pebbles that were actually zoisite crystals. Soon after, a local Masai cattle herder found a blue stone shining in the sun.

Once the gem reached New York’s Tiffany and Co., it was named “tanzanite,” after the country where it originated. The gemstone quickly gained popularity and is today the centerpiece of some of the most exquisite jewelry.

4 Reasons to Wear Tanzanite Jewelry

A Rich History

Tanzanite was formed nearly 585 million years ago. This is around the same time that the African Rift Valley took shape. Today, the gemstone is found in “boudins,” or special geological structures. As popular as diamonds and rarer than them, tanzanite gained immense popularity within a mere 50 years of its discovery. The rarity of the gemstone made it all the more desirable. Soon, it began to be widely used in jewelry.

At Jewelili, you will find one of the largest collections of tanzanite jewelry, available at the most affordable prices. For instance, check out our beautiful set of sterling silver tanzanite gemstone pendant necklace, stud earrings, tanzanite birthstone ring, and bangle. They can put you in the spotlight on any special occasion.

Metaphysical and Healing Properties

Tanzanite is believed to stimulate intuition and perception, and promote higher consciousness. It is also believed to improve vitality and detoxify the body. In addition, the stone is said to have a soothing effect on the wearer. Due to the high vibration rate of the gem, it is thought to help preserve youthfulness and stimulate the head and throat. It is also believed that tanzanite allows the wearer to get in touch with their full potential and the other side of their personality.

Interestingly, the stone is also used in chakra cleansing. Tanzanite is said to stimulate almost every chakra of the astral body, especially the parts from the Sahastra Chakra to the Anahata Chakra. Energy is generated in these chakras, and the mind is connected to the heart. The stone is also said to enhance the five senses of the wearer.

Geological Properties

Tanzanite is a special kind of zoisite that changes color from ultramarine to sapphire blue, and sometimes even looks like amethyst or a yellowish gemstone in artificial light. Interestingly, the stone gets a bluish-violet color when it is heated to 400°C - 500°C (752°F - 932°F). It can be distinguished from sapphire by paying attention to its range of blue and purple hues.

Since tanzanite is created through a heating process, it is recommended to not expose the gemstone to sudden changes or extremes of temperature. Nevertheless, the color of the gemstone is bold enough to remain unaffected by strong light.

An otherwise unattractive brown gem, tanzanite is regarded as precious in its highly in-demand blue hue. If you would like to adorn yourself with this majestic blue gemstone, consider our sterling silver tanzanite and cubic zirconia stud earrings. Their halo design adds to the royalty of the gem.

The December Birthstone

Tanzanite, reminiscent of the deep blue ocean, is believed to deepen psychic abilities and intuition. As the December birthstone, it is regarded as a bringer of transformation. It is the stone of the mighty Sagittarius and can enhance the wearer’s spiritual side.

If you are a December baby or any of your loved ones is born in this month, consider our white gold marquise tanzanite birthstone and diamond ring for women as the apt birthday present. This gemstone ring can bring positive vibrations to the recipient while also impressing her with its trendy design.

Feel free to check out our other tanzanite jewelry pieces as well. These can be gifted to anyone who loves unique jewelry, and not just December-borns. On every order, you can enjoy our free shipping, 30-day easy returns, attractive discounts, and competitive prices. So, don’t wait any longer. Start shopping now!

Some More Sparkle

What other kinds of blue gemstone jewelry can I shop for?

At Jewelili, you can also shop for jewelry featuring blue diamonds and blue sapphires, apart from tanzanite.

Can I shop for jewelry featuring other birthstones?

Yes. We bring you jewelry in the birthstones of all months of the year. These include garnet (January), amethyst (February), aquamarine (March), diamond (April), emerald (May), pearl (June), ruby (July), peridot (August), sapphire (September), opal (October), citrine (November), and tanzanite (December).

How do I take care of tanzanite jewelry?

Steam cleaners and ultrasonic cleansers can damage tanzanite or affect its color. So, clean tanzanite jewelry with warm soapy water, let them air-dry and polish them using an untreated piece of cloth. Don't use any acid.