Eigenschaften & Farbe des Edelsteins
Learn more about Tanzanite here
The properties of a tanzanite
Hardness, Stability, and Physical
PropertiesOn the Mohs hardness scale, tanzanite ranks between 6 and 7. This makes it harder than many gemstones, but more delicate than classics like sapphire or diamond. This property affects both its processing and its use in jewelry. Tanzanite has perfect cleavage in one direction, which makes it more susceptible to mechanical stress. For this reason, it requires special care during cutting, setting, and wearing. These physical properties are closely linked to its internal crystal structure.
Optical Properties and Pleochroism
One of tanzanite's most striking features is its strong pleochroism. Depending on the viewing angle and light incidence, the gemstone can display different colors. Typically, blue, violet, and occasionally reddish-brown hues appear simultaneously. This multicolorality is not superficial but deeply embedded in the crystal. It lends tanzanite exceptional visual depth and is a key quality characteristic in evaluating the gemstone.
The Color Palette of Tanzanite
Color is the most important and at the same time most complex characteristic of tanzanite. It ranges across a broad spectrum, from lighter violet-blue tones to intensely saturated shades of blue. In gemstone evaluation, specific color descriptions have become established to precisely describe these differences. In addition to these main color grades, numerous transitions and nuances exist, which are additionally influenced by cut, light, and viewing angle. The color of a tanzanite is therefore never static but always changing.
Vivid Blue (Handel)
This highest color saturation features a deep, electric blue with a subtle violet undertone. It is the rarest and most valuable quality grade, captivating with its exceptional and intense luminosity.
Königsblau
A regal, intense blue that embodies a perfect balance between elegance and depth. These stones display a vibrant play of color, which is particularly showcased in high-quality jewelry.
Lupe reinigen
The stone is free of visible inclusions even under 10x magnification. This purity ensures maximum brilliance, clear play of color, and makes the tanzanite particularly valuable. Loupe-clean qualities are rare and are mainly used for high-quality jewelry.
Augenrein
With this type, no inclusions are visible to the naked eye. Small natural characteristics may be present under strong magnification, but they do not affect the stone's appearance or brilliance. They appear clear, vibrant, and are particularly popular for fine jewelry as they offer a very good quality-to-price ratio.
Intensive Reinigung
Ein sehr hochwertiger Tansanit mit hoher Klarheit und besonders intensiver Farbwirkung. Der Stein erscheint mit bloßem Auge klar und rein. Durch die hohe Reinheit kann das Licht optimal reflektiert werden, wodurch die Farbe besonders lebendig, tief und brillant wirkt.
Influence of Light and Cut on Color
The perception of tanzanite color is highly dependent on lighting conditions. Under daylight, the gemstone usually appears bluer, while artificial light enhances violet tones. This characteristic significantly contributes to the stone's fascination but also requires experience in evaluation. The cut plays a crucial role in optimally showcasing pleochroism. A well-chosen cut can emphasize the preferred color direction and minimize undesirable color components. For this reason, tanzanite is often cut to highlight its most intense blue direction.
Clarity, Inclusions, and Transparency
Tanzanite often exhibits fine inclusions that are visible under magnification. These inclusions are natural growth features and generally do not impair the beauty of the gemstone. High-quality stones are characterized by high transparency and an even color distribution. Clarity in tanzanite is an important criterion but subordinate to the color value. Minor inclusions are considered acceptable as long as they do not detract from the overall appearance.
