Tanzanite is an extraordinary gemstone, found only in one place on the planet: the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Only discovered in 1967, Tanzanite is already one of the world's most popular gemstones. Some credit is due to Tiffany & Co., who introduced this beautiful blue gem onto the market with a lovely name that pays tribute to the beauty of the land of its birth.

Tanzanite is available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Rarely pure blue, Tanzanite almost always displays its signature overtones of purple. In smaller sizes, Tanzanite tends toward lighter shades of lavender. In larger sizes, the gem typically displays deeper, richer blues and purples. It is this mesmerizing saturation of color that has made Tanzanite so sought after.

The finest quality Tanzanite is usually deep blue or violet, with few if any inclusions visible under magnification. Such stones are also exceptionally well-cut and polished. Colour is the most important factor to consider when buying Tanzanite.

Tanzanite is a little more delicate than other gemstones, but it has rapidly become one of the most coveted gemstones in the world.