Tanzanite Benefits, How to Wear It & Authenticity Guide
Introduction to Tanzanite
Tanzanite, discovered in 1968 by Tiffany & Co. in northern Tanzania, is known for its captivating color ranging from deep blue to violet. Often compared to sapphire, it's considered a popular alternative due to their similar appearance. Its unique properties and single-source origin have made it one of the most sought-after gemstones in modern jewelry. As a relatively young discovery in the gemstone world, tanzanite has quickly gained recognition for both its beauty and reported metaphysical properties.
Basic Information:
Main source: Tanzania
English name: Tanzanite
Mohs hardness: 6-7
Associated chakras: Throat and Third Eye chakras
Chemical composition: Calcium Aluminum Silicate
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Main Benefits and Properties of Tanzanite Enhances Wisdom, Insight, and Decision-Making
Tanzanite, connected to the third eye chakra, helps develop wisdom and improve concentration. It promotes mental clarity, reduces distractions, and enhances work and study efficiency. For those who often find themselves at crossroads, tanzanite is particularly beneficial in decision-making processes, helping wearers trust their intuition and make choices aligned with their true path.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety In our fast-paced modern world, tanzanite serves as a natural stress reliever. The stone helps maintain emotional stability and effectively relieves stress and anxiety from daily life, bringing inner peace and tranquility. Regular wearers often report a greater sense of calm and improved ability to handle daily challenges with grace.
Develops Self-Potential and Confidence One of tanzanite's most powerful attributes is its ability to strengthen courage and stimulate inner potential. The stone helps its wearer face life's challenges with renewed self-belief and embrace new opportunities with confidence. This makes it particularly valuable for those going through periods of personal or professional growth.
Common Questions About Tanzanite
Is Tanzanite the Same as Iolite?
While both stones share similar coloring, they have distinct differences. Iolite possesses a higher hardness rating of 7-7.5, making it more resistant to daily wear and tear. Tanzanite, with its 6-7 hardness, requires more careful handling. In terms of appearance, tanzanite typically displays brighter purple-blue or blue-violet hues with exceptional brilliance, while iolite presents primarily in indigo blue with more subtle luster.
What Element is Tanzanite in Feng Shui?
Following traditional color-based feng shui principles, tanzanite's purple-blue hue associates it with the Water element. This makes it particularly beneficial for those looking to strengthen their Water element or who have favorable Water feng shui in their birth chart. The stone can be strategically placed in spaces where you wish to enhance wisdom, communication, and emotional flow.
Which Hand Should You Wear Tanzanite On?
Traditional crystal healing practices suggest wearing tanzanite on the left hand for optimal stress reduction and emotional balance, following the principle of left-absorbing and right-releasing energy. However, personal comfort should ultimately guide your choice. Some wearers report stronger benefits when wearing the stone closer to their heart, while others prefer having it on their dominant hand.
Tanzanite Care and Maintenance
Caring for your tanzanite requires attention and gentle handling. Unlike harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, tanzanite needs special consideration during daily wear. Never expose your tanzanite jewelry to harsh chemicals, including household cleaners or beauty products. When cleaning your tanzanite pieces, use only mild soap and lukewarm water, gently wiping with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. Store your tanzanite jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratching, ideally in a soft pouch or dedicated jewelry box compartment.
Identifying Authentic Tanzanite
Distinguishing genuine tanzanite from imitations requires attention to several key characteristics. Natural tanzanite exhibits pleochroism, meaning it shows different colors when viewed from different angles – typically shifting between blue, violet, and burgundy. The stone should feel cool to the touch initially, though this alone isn't a definitive test. Under magnification, genuine tanzanite often shows natural inclusions and growth patterns. However, the most reliable method of authentication is obtaining certification from a reputable gemological laboratory.
Energetic Cleansing and Charging
Like all crystals, tanzanite benefits from regular energetic cleansing to maintain its vibrational properties. Moonlight cleansing is particularly effective for tanzanite – simply place your stone in a safe spot under the moonlight for several hours or overnight. Crystal clusters, especially clear quartz, can also help cleanse and recharge your tanzanite. Some practitioners use gentle sound vibrations from singing bowls or bells to cleanse their stones. Remember to set clear intentions when cleansing your tanzanite, as this helps align the stone's energy with your specific needs.
Understanding Tanzanite Value
The value of tanzanite is determined by several factors, with color being the most crucial. The most prized tanzanites display a deep blue to violet-blue hue with strong saturation. Clarity also plays a significant role – cleaner stones command higher prices. Size significantly impacts value, as larger tanzanites are increasingly rare. Since Tanzania remains the only known source of tanzanite, with supplies potentially limited, the stone's value may continue to appreciate over time.
Professional Wear and Special Occasions
Tanzanite makes an excellent choice for professional settings, as its elegant color and sophisticated appearance suit formal environments. Its blue-violet hues complement both warm and cool-toned wardrobes, making it versatile for various occasions. However, due to its relative softness, consider removing tanzanite jewelry during physical activities or when working with your hands.
Tanzanite in Modern Jewelry Design
Contemporary jewelers often pair tanzanite with white metals like platinum or white gold, which enhance its cool tones. The stone works beautifully in both vintage-inspired and modern designs. Popular settings include protective bezels that shield the stone's edges from impact. Some designers create stunning combinations by pairing tanzanite with complementary stones like diamonds or moonstone for added depth and brilliance.
Conclusion
Tanzanite's remarkable beauty and reported metaphysical properties make it a valuable addition to any jewelry collection. Understanding proper care and authentication methods ensures you'll enjoy your tanzanite pieces for years to come. Whether worn for its aesthetic appeal or its reported healing properties, tanzanite continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts and spiritual practitioners alike. As with any precious stone, investing in certified pieces and practicing proper care will help maintain both the physical beauty and energetic properties of your tanzanite jewelry.