Introduction
Welcome to the dazzling world of AAA tanzanite, a gemstone that captures the imagination with its deep blues and purples, reminiscent of twilight skies. Imagine standing in the heart of Tanzania, gazing at the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, and uncovering a rare treasure beneath its shadow. This is the enchanting scenario where tanzanite, a gem unique to this part of the world, makes its home. But with its rarity and exquisite beauty comes a challenge: understanding and appreciating the true value of AAA tanzanite in the vast world of gemstones.
The journey of discerning this gem’s worth is akin to solving a fascinating puzzle. How do we differentiate AAA tanzanite from its lesser grades, and what makes it stand out in the glittering crowd of gemstones? These questions are essential for both gem enthusiasts and casual admirers. The answer lies not just in its breathtaking hues but also in its rarity, clarity, and the unique journey it takes from a mine in Africa to becoming a cherished piece of jewelry.
In this article, we delve into the mesmerizing realm of AAA tanzanite. From its geological origins to its place in the world of fine jewelry, we explore every facet of this remarkable gemstone. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of gems, join us as we unravel the mystery and allure of AAA tanzanite, a stone that’s not just a beauty to behold but a treasure to be valued.
Understanding AAA Tanzanite
What is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a very special kind of gemstone. It’s only found in Tanzania, a country in Africa. That’s why it’s so rare and valuable.
Tanzanite Grading System
Tanzanite is graded from A to AAAA. The grade tells us how good the gemstone is.
- AAAA Tanzanite: This is the very best tanzanite. It’s super rare, with less than 1% of all tanzanite being this good. It’s used in the fanciest jewelry, like the Iliana and Rhapsody collections. This grade is also called Vivid because its colors are really bright and clear.
- AAA Tanzanite: This is also a top-quality Tanzanite. About 5% of all Tanzanite is AAA grade. It has beautiful blue and violet colors with bright burgundy flashes. It’s used for very special jewelry too.
- AA Tanzanite: This is the standard grade used in jewelry. It’s still very pretty with blue to violet colors, but it’s not as colorful as AAA. About 20 to 30% of all tanzanite is AA grade, sometimes called Premium.
- A Tanzanite: This grade is lighter in color, mostly lavender blue. It doesn’t have all the colors you see in higher grades. A lot of tanzanite, about 50 to 75%, is this grade.
- AB Tanzanite: This is the lowest grade. It has a faint light blue color. It’s the most common, but it’s not used by Shop LC.
Why AAA Tanzanite is Special
AAA tanzanite is really special because it’s one of the best grades. It’s not just pretty; it’s also very rare. Imagine finding a treasure chest, and inside, there are only a few gems that shine the brightest. That’s like finding AAA tanzanite. Its colors are amazing, with deep blues and violets and even flashes of burgundy that make it look magical. When you have AAA tanzanite, you have something that not many people have, which makes it extra special.
Why Grades Matter
The grade of tanzanite tells us about its color and how rare it is. The higher the grade, like AAA or AAAA, the more beautiful and rare the tanzanite is. That’s why those grades are used for really special jewelry. Lower grades, like A or AB, are still pretty, but they’re not as colorful or as rare. So, when you see a piece of tanzanite jewelry, the grade can tell you how special and valuable it is!
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Origins and History
Tanzanite is not just any gemstone; it has a really interesting story about where it comes from and how it was found.
Where Tanzanite Comes From
Tanzanite is found in only one place in the entire world – a country in Africa called Tanzania. That’s actually how it got its name! It comes from the hills of a beautiful place called Merelani, which is near Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa.
The Discovery of Tanzanite
The story of how tanzanite was discovered is like something out of a treasure hunt. It was first found in 1967, which is not very long ago. A man named Manuel d’Souza, who was looking for another type of gemstone, stumbled upon some beautiful blue crystals. He thought they were sapphires at first, but it turned out to be something totally new and unique!
Tanzanite’s Quick Rise to Fame
After it was discovered, tanzanite quickly became popular all around the world. People loved it for its beautiful blue and violet colors. A famous jewelry company named Tiffany & Co. played a big part in making tanzanite famous. They saw how pretty it was and started making jewelry with it. They even helped give it the name “tanzanite.”
The Rarity of Tanzanite
One of the things that makes tanzanite so special is that it’s really rare. Since it’s only found in one small area in Tanzania, there’s not a lot of it. This makes tanzanite even more precious and sought after by people who love gemstones.
Tanzanite Today
Today, tanzanite is known all over the world. It’s loved for its unique color and its interesting story. It’s not just a pretty gemstone; it’s a piece of the earth’s history from a very special place in Africa.
Value and Market Trends
Tanzanite is not just a pretty gemstone; it’s also very valuable. Let’s talk about why it’s so special and how it’s doing in the market today.
According to the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, tanzanite is one of the most undervalued gemstones. Despite its uniqueness, its price per carat, ranging between US$300 and US$600. It’s a great time to be a collector!
Why Tanzanite is Valuable
Tanzanite is very special for a few reasons. First, its colors are amazing. It can be blue, violet, and sometimes even looks a bit burgundy. These colors can change a bit when you move tanzanite around in the light. Second, tanzanite is very rare. It’s only found in one place in the world – Tanzania. That’s like having a toy that no one else has. This rarity makes it very precious.
Tanzanite in the Jewelry Market
Tanzanite has become very popular in the jewelry market. People all over the world love it for its unique beauty. It’s used in all kinds of jewelry like rings, necklaces, and earrings. Because it’s so rare, the best quality tanzanite can be quite expensive. But people still love it because it’s so special.
Current Trends with Tanzanite
Right now, tanzanite is really in demand. That means a lot of people want to buy it. As more people learn about how beautiful and rare it is, they want to have tanzanite jewelry. This popularity can sometimes make the price go up. But even with higher prices, people still think tanzanite is worth it.
The Future of Tanzanite
The future for tanzanite looks bright. As it becomes more and more popular, its value could keep going up. This is good news for people who already own tanzanite. Their gemstones might be worth more in the future. For people who want to buy tanzanite, it’s a reminder that this gemstone is not just beautiful. Still, it’s also an excellent treasure to keep.
Identification and Authenticity
When you’re looking at tanzanite, it’s essential to know if it’s real or not. Let’s learn how to tell if tanzanite is genuine and why it’s vital.
How to Identify Real Tanzanite
Real tanzanite has some remarkable features that help us know it’s authentic. First, its color is unique. It’s a beautiful mix of blue and violet, and it can change colors when you move it under different lights. Another way to tell is by looking at it closely. Real tanzanite is very clear – it’s like looking through a clean glass window.
Why Authenticity is Important
Knowing if tanzanite is real is very important, especially if you’re going to buy it. Natural tanzanite is valuable and rare, but sometimes, there are fake stones that look like tanzanite. These faux stones are less memorable and worth less money. So, if you’re buying tanzanite, you want to make sure you’re getting the real thing.
Certificates for Tanzanite
When you buy tanzanite, especially if it’s expensive, it should come with a certificate. This certificate is like a report card for the gemstone. It tells you that the tanzanite is genuine and gives you other important information. It’s an excellent way to ensure you get what you pay for.
Tips for Buying Genuine Tanzanite
If you’re going to buy Tanzanite, here are some tips:
- Buy from a trusted store or seller. They should know a lot about tanzanite and be able to answer your questions.
- Ask for a certificate that says the tanzanite is genuine.
- Look at the tanzanite closely.
Remember, genuine tanzanite has beautiful colors and is very clear. If you keep these tips in mind, you’ll be good at finding genuine Tanzanite!
Care and Maintenance
Tanzanite is a beautiful and extraordinary gemstone, but it needs to be taken care of properly. Here’s how you can keep your tanzanite jewelry looking shiny and new.
Keeping Tanzanite Safe
Tanzanite is pretty, but it’s not the toughest gemstone. It can get scratched or broken if you’re not careful. So, it’s essential to keep it safe. When you’re not wearing your tanzanite jewelry, put it in a soft cloth or a jewelry box where it won’t get bumped or scratched.
Cleaning Tanzanite
Tanzanite can get dirty like anything else. You can use warm, soapy water and a soft brush, like a toothbrush, to clean it. Gently brush your tanzanite to make it sparkle again. But remember, be gentle! After cleaning, rinse it with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Protecting Tanzanite from Damage
There are a few things that can harm tanzanite. Heat and sudden changes in temperature can damage it. So, it’s best to keep it away from stuff like heaters or hot water. Also, tanzanite can be sensitive to some chemicals. So, take off your tanzanite jewelry when you’re using something like cleaning products or when you go swimming in a pool.
Regular Check-Ups
Suppose your tanzanite is set in a ring, necklace, or another type of jewelry. In that case, it’s good to have it checked by a jeweler occasionally. They can ensure that the tanzanite is still sitting tight in its setting and that the jewelry is in good shape. This way, you won’t have to worry about losing your beautiful gemstone.
Remembering the Basics
Taking care of Tanzanite is relatively easy. Just remember these simple things:
- Keep it safe.
- Clean it gently.
- Protect it from heat and chemicals.
- Get it checked by a jeweler sometimes.
If you do these things, your tanzanite will stay beautiful for a long time.
Conclusion
As we journey through the vibrant story of AAA tanzanite, it becomes clear that this gemstone is more than just a rare and beautiful treasure. It embodies a unique blend of geological wonder, skilled craftsmanship, and a rich cultural heritage. Standing out with its deep blues and violets and representing only a fraction of the tanzanite found, AAA tanzanite is not just a symbol of luxury but a testament to nature’s artistry. Its rarity, intensified by its single-source origin, adds to its allure and value, making it a coveted gem in fine jewelry.
The intricate grading system, from A to AAAA, further highlights the exceptional quality of AAA tanzanite, setting it apart with its intense coloration and remarkable clarity. This system underscores the importance of understanding what makes each gem unique, ensuring that admirers and collectors can appreciate and invest in genuine quality. As tanzanite continues to fascinate with its trichroic properties, it remains a gemstone that adorns and tells a story – of discovery, rarity, and unparalleled beauty.
Embracing AAA tanzanite is to adopt a piece of Earth’s history, one that is finite and extraordinarily special. This gemstone, reserved for the finest of jewels, not only enhances the beauty of those who wear it but also serves as a reminder of the wondrous gifts of our planet. In its highest grade, tanzanite is more than just a jewel; it’s a legacy, carrying with it the mystique of its African roots and the promise of lasting value and enchantment.
Updated November 30, 2023.