Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 by Manuel d'Souza in the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. In its natural state, it is reddish, brown, and blue. Heat treatment, 350 degrees for 30 minutes or so, removes the reddish “veil” and reveals the characteristic brilliant blues and sometimes greens.
Scientifically named blue-violet zoisite, it was renamed by Tiffany and Co. in 1968 after the country where it was discovered.
Tanzanite became December’s birthstone in 2002, the first birthstone update since 1912.
Kutamani (Swahili for “aspire”) Tanzanite has a pronounced violet hue and is considered a finer stone.
Naturally occurring Tanzanite can still only be found in the Manyara region of Northern Tanzania.
We have a huge collection of tanzanite, along with many other gemstones, but they are going fast at Coast 101.
