Tanzanite

What Is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is the blue-violet variety of zoisite, discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania — still its only known source on Earth. Named by Tiffany & Co. for its homeland, it is strongly trichroic: blue, violet, and burgundy flash as the stone turns. Fine "cornflower blue" material rivals sapphire, and the deep-blue "Heart of the Ocean" pendant in Titanic was crafted with tanzanite for the film. It is December's birthstone.

What Is Tanzanite Good For?

Tanzanite is a stone of transformation. Linked to the throat and third-eye chakras, it is traditionally used to quiet mental chatter, deepen intuition, and support honest self-expression. Many turn to it in transitional chapters — new roles, new cities, new beginnings — as a companion for seeing clearly and speaking truthfully. Its violet-blue is simply calming to look at, which is half the ritual.

How to Use Tanzanite

• Wear it thoughtfully — Pendants and earrings suit tanzanite best; reserve rings for occasional wear (see care).
• For reflection — Hold a piece during journaling or meditation as a traditional aid to clear seeing.
• As a December birthstone gift — the modern classic.
• For new beginnings — Many choose tanzanite to mark graduations, moves, and fresh starts.

Care & Cleansing

• Rates 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale with perfect cleavage — treat gently: remove before sports, housework, or swimming, and never use ultrasonic cleaners.
• Store separately from harder stones.
• Cleansing: rest it overnight on a Clear Quartz cluster — the simplest daily reset. For a deeper cleanse, try our Herkimer Diamond water method: soak a Herkimer Diamond in water for a few hours, then rest your crystal in the water for 10–30 minutes. Moonlight around the full moon is a good tool-free alternative. Read our full cleansing guide.
• Avoid salt water — some shops recommend it as a cleansing method, but salt can permanently dull or damage the surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tanzanite good for?
Calm intuition, honest expression, and graceful transitions — traditionally linked to the throat and third-eye chakras.

Where does tanzanite come from?
A single small mining area in Tanzania — the only known source in the world, which underpins its value.

Is tanzanite fragile?
Relatively, yes: 6–6.5 Mohs with perfect cleavage. Pendants and earrings are the safest everyday choices.