December Birthstone: Tanzanite

Unlike most months that only have one birthstone, December has several. In my last blog, I listed them and highlighted turquoise. This week I’ll talk about tanzanite, which is not only gorgeous but also has a great story.

The name Tanzanite was given to this blue-violet variety of zoisite by Tiffany and Company because this gemstone is only found in one part of the world: Tanzania. It was discovered in 1967 by Masai tribesman Ali Juuyawatu and, in 1968, Tiffany and Company launched a major advertising campaign to promote it, making it an overnight sensation.

Because the crystals show different colors depending on the viewing direction, cutters can fashion gems with a range of color from violetish blue to bluish violet depending on how much weight they want to retain from the rough.

Fun Fact: The Oscar Awards Ceremony has seen both Anne Hathaway and Cate Blanchet adorned with Tanzanite jewelry.