December’s Birthstone: The Icy Brilliance of Tanzanite

By Kirsty I
28 Jan 2025

18ct White Gold Oval Cut Tanzanite and Brilliant Cut Diamond Cluster Ring

As the year draws to a close, December graces us with crisp air and festive cheer. For those lucky enough to celebrate their birthdays this month, there’s a sparkling treasure to mark the occasion—tanzanite. Known for its vibrant hues and exceptional rarity, this stunning December birthstone has an enchanting story to tell.

Celebrate this festive season with a piece from our exquisite Tanzanite Jewellery collection at Chisholm Hunter. It really is the perfect addition under the Christmas tree!

Join us as we explore everything there is to know about tanzanite, from its mesmerising colours to its fascinating history and rich significance.

What is the Birthstone for December?

December babies are spoiled for choice, as they have not one but three official birthstones: turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. While all three are captivating in their own way, tanzanite often takes the spotlight for its vivid beauty and rarity. Discovered only relatively recently, this gem has quickly earned a place in the hearts of jewellery lovers worldwide.

What is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is a strikingly beautiful gemstone that belongs to the zoisite mineral family. Its claim to fame lies in its rarity and unique trichroic nature, which means it can display three different colours depending on the angle of the light. First unearthed in the mid-20th century, tanzanite has become a sought-after gem, especially in modern jewellery design.

What Colour is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite’s most defining feature is its captivating colour, which ranges from deep blue to violet. This colour spectrum makes it a versatile choice for jewellery, appealing to lovers of cool-toned gems. In its raw form, tanzanite often appears brownish, but with heat treatment, the rich blue and violet tones are brought to life, creating the stunning hues we’ve come to associate with this gem.

The History of Tanzanite

The story of tanzanite begins in 1967, when it was discovered in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Legend has it that a Maasai tribesman stumbled upon shimmering blue crystals in the grasslands, leading to the gem’s official identification by Tiffany & Co. They named it "tanzanite" to honour its place of origin and introduced it to the world as the "Gemstone of the 20th Century". Since then, tanzanite has captivated gem enthusiasts with its beauty and exclusivity.

What does Tanzanite Represent?

Tanzanite is often associated with transformation and new beginnings. Its shifting colours symbolise adaptability and change, making it a meaningful gift for those embarking on a new chapter in life. Additionally, it’s believed to promote calmness, intuition, and emotional clarity, which might be why it’s treasured not only for its physical beauty but also for its metaphysical properties.

How is Tanzanite Formed?

Tanzanite’s formation is as remarkable as the gem itself. It originated over 585 million years ago, when tectonic plate activity created the unique geological conditions necessary for its formation. Tanzanite forms deep within the earth under immense heat and pressure, resulting in the zoisite crystals that we know as tanzanite. This process, combined with its singular location, makes tanzanite a geological marvel.

Where is Tanzanite Found?

True to its name, tanzanite is found exclusively in Tanzania. Specifically, it’s mined in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. This limited geographic range makes tanzanite incredibly rare, with some experts estimating that the known supply could be depleted within a few decades. This rarity only adds to its allure and value in the gemstone market.

Whether you’re drawn to tanzanite for its stunning hues, rich history, or symbolic meaning, there’s no denying its charm. As December’s birthstone, it’s a fitting celebration of the month’s beauty and the promise of new beginnings. So, if you’re looking for a gemstone that embodies rarity, elegance, and transformation, tanzanite is the perfect choice.

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