• Location: Merelani Hills, Tanzania
• Weight: 0.05ct
• Diameter: approx. 2.3-2.4 mm, Height: 1.3 mm
• Color: blue (heated)
• Note: This is a randomly selected piece; you will receive a similar stone.
• DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Tanzanite - a rare mineral that changes color depending on the viewing angle Tanzanite is a rare mineral with a characteristic blue-violet color, found only in one location in the world, in the Merelani Hills area of Tanzania. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite, valued for its unique coloration and strong pleochroism, which is the ability to change shades depending on the viewing angle. Tanzanite's color is primarily caused by the presence of the trace element vanadium, which influences the absorption and reflection of light within the crystal. Discovery of Tanzanite Tanzanite was discovered relatively recently, in 1967, in northern Tanzania. According to the most well-known accounts, it was found after natural fires exposed and enhanced its coloration. Due to its limited presence and relatively recent discovery, it is considered a modern and exceptionally rare mineral. Rough Tanzanite and its coloration Rough Tanzanite fascinates with its natural structure, crystal form, and play of colors. In its unheated state, it is typically trichroic, meaning it can display several color shades – most commonly blue, purple, and subtle wine-red tones – depending on the viewing angle. Heat treatment of Tanzanite An interesting fact is that most tanzanite on the market has undergone heat treatment, which enhances its characteristic coloration. During heating, some color components are reduced, and the stone becomes predominantly dichroic, showing mainly two primary colors – blue and purple. This process is common and stable and does not alter the fundamental nature of the mineral. Formation Tanzanite formed under very specific geological conditions, approximately 500-600 million years ago, in conjunction with the movement of tectonic plates in what is now northern Tanzania. During the collision and deformation of the earth's crust, intense pressure and high temperatures transformed the original rocks rich in calcium and aluminum. In the presence of the trace element vanadium, the mineral zoisite formed in its blue-violet variety known as Tanzanite. These unique geological processes occurred only within a narrow band of the Merelani Hills area, which explains why Tanzanite is found in only one location in the world and is considered an exceptionally rare mineral. Rough Tanzanite specimens are sought after for their authenticity and natural beauty, which stands out without any intervention or treatment. They are ideal for mineral enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the uniqueness of natural crystals.