BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IS TANZANITE?
Discovered in 1967, Tanzanite is a gemstone of profound rarity and allure. Exclusively mined in Tanzania, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro and just a few hours’ drive from Africa Gems & Jewelers, it is known for its spectacular blue-violet shades.
Commonly mistaken for Sapphire, the much rarer Tanzanzite is celebrated for its singular source and trichroic nature (displaying three colors). It unique shades of blue, violet, and pink makes it a coveted investment and treasure worldwide.
TANZANITE MINING: THE SOURCE
Directly from our family-operated mines in the Merelani Hills, each Tanzanite is a testament to our heritage and dedication. We ensure every gem’s journey from mine to market is rooted in ethical practices and respect for the land and the people.
THE 4 C’s OF BUYING GEMSTONES
• Color: Hue Intensity & Appeal
• Clarity: Visibility of Inclusions / Flaws
• Cut: Shape & Light Reflection
• Carat: Weight
TANZANITE COLOR GRADING: THE HEART OF GEMSTONE
Color dramatically influences Tanzanite’s value, with the deepest blues and violets being the most coveted as darker hues are rarer to find than the lighter hued stones.
Our color grading helps clients choose their stone according to preference, offering everything from alluring lighter, vibrant tones to the sought-after deep, rich hues.
Grading Scale: From lighter, more common shades to the exceptional, deep colors, our scale (Violet Dominant to Blue Dominant) assists in finding your ideal Tanzanite.
The tone in a Tanzanite refers to the stone’s lightness or darkness and ranges from Intense (AAA+) to Faint (A).
FANCY COLOR TANZANITE
Fancy Tanzanite gemstones can also be found in a range of striking and fanciful colors ranging from green, yellow, champagne and pink. These uncommonly-colored Tanzanites make up less than 0.5% of all Tanzanite mined.
Feel free to ask our sales associates to show you our collection of alluring Fancy Tanzanite.
*Note: The image above is for illustration purposes only.
TANZANITE CLARITY GRADING: THE SOUL OF THE GEMSTONE
Gemstone clarity refers to the natural inclusions or flaws in the stone, impacting value. More inclusions typically mean a lower grade. We select mostly ‘eye-clean’ stones (no visible flaws to the naked eye), however, in Tanzanite, such inclusions can add to ‘the beauty within the stone’. Also, you won’t find a truly “imperfect” gemstone, because the very essence of its color variety comes from these unique inclusions.
There are various clarity grading methods and at Africa Gems & Jewelers we follow the International Grading Standard Scale, guiding you in understanding and choosing your Tanzanite with confidence.
CLARITY GRADING INDEX
• SI1-SI2: Slightly Included (inclusions are visible to the naked eye)
• VS: Very Small Inclusions (inclusions resembling tiny specs)
• VVS: Very Very Slight Inclusions (inclusions resembling tiny specs when magnified)
TANZANITE CUT & SHAPES: SCULPTING THE LIGHT OF GEMSTONES
A meticulously cut Tanzanite not only reveals the stone’s inherent beauty but also maximizes its sparkle. Our in-house jewelers excel in delivering cuts that enhance the gem’s color and brilliance, steering clear of common pitfalls like over-depth (cut too deep, reducing brilliance) or windowing (cut too shallow, light leakage).
Cutting Excellence:
Our cutting standards ensure each Tanzanite maximizes its potential, balancing carat weight with an impeccable display of color and light.
Brilliant Cuts:
Maximize sparkle & fire with a complex design that reflects light back for dazzling brilliance. (Think round diamonds)
Step Cuts:
Prioritize clarity & color depth with a simpler faceting pattern for a geometric look. (Think emerald type cuts)
*Note: The image above is for illustration purposes only.
TANZANITE CARAT WEIGHT: MEASURING DESIRE
Carat weight, a universal standard (1 carat = approx. 0.2 grams / 5 carat = 1 gram), is how we measure Tanzanite’s size and value. While larger Tanzanites often flaunt deeper, more pronounced colors, every carat size has its unique charm and quality.
We offer a diverse range of sizes, each showcasing the signature Tanzanite beauty.
CUSTOM JEWELRY DESIGNS: YOUR IMAGINATION, OUR CRAFT
Beyond offering exquisite gemstones, we specialize in bringing your dream jewelry to life with our on-site studio and workshop. Free consultations to create jewelry that perfectly reflects the true you.
ETHICALLY SOURCED TANZANITE & CERTIFIED GEMS: OUR PLEDGE
Commitment to ethical sourcing and transparency is at our core. Every Tanzanite from Africa Gems & Jewelers comes with a certificate of authenticity, underscoring our promise of quality and ethical sourcing.
WHY CHOOSE US FOR YOUR TANZANITE STONES & JEWELRY?
•Expert Gemologists: Our family have been sourcing stones and creating handcrafted jewelery since 1971
• Dedicated Ethical Sourcing: Each gem tells a story of traceability and responsible practices.
• Unmatched Craftsmanship: In-house studio that creates hand-crafted custom jewelery that breathe life into your visions.
• Guaranteed Authenticity: Certified gemstones, ensuring peace of mind.