A Complete Guide to Tanzanite: Kenya’s Precious Gemstone

Silver Oak
Sep 17
3 min read

Kenya is known for many beautiful gems, but none more mystical and alluring than tanzanite. From its striking blue‐violet hue to the rarity that defines its value, tanzanite has become a symbol of luxury and exclusivity. In this guide, we will explore the origin, properties, how to buy, and care tips for tanzanite. Whether you’re drawn to an elegant ring, pendant, or earrings, this guide will help you appreciate Kenya’s precious gemstones fully.

1. What is Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is a blue to violet gemstone discovered in 1967, known for its trichroism — showing different colours when viewed from different angles.
It’s a variety of the mineral zoisite, found almost exclusively in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

2. History & Origin

Discovered in the Mererani Hills of northern Tanzania. Tanzania remains the only place in the world with commercially viable deposits of tanzanite.
Introduced to the global market by Tiffany & Co., which coined the name “tanzanite.”
Though not mined in Kenya, the gem is popular here, imported under strict quality standards, and set into jewellery by Kenyan artisans.

3. Physical & Optical Properties

Property	Details
Hardness	6–7 on Mohs scale – softer than sapphire or diamond, more fragile under rough wear.
Colour / Pleochroism	Strong blue, violet, sometimes burgundy or reddish hues depending on angle/perspective.
Luster	Vitreous (glass‐like) finish when polished.
Clarity	Eye‐clean stones preferred; inclusions affect value.
Treatments	Usually heat-treated to enhance the blue/violet colours.

4. Grading Tanzanite: Colour, Clarity, Cut & Carat

Colour: The most important factor. The deeper, more saturated the blue‐violet, the more valuable. A pure saturated blue is rare.
Clarity: Most tanzanite has inclusions; stones that are eye‐clean are prized.
Cut: Good cut maximizes the trichroic effect and shows off colour. Common cuts: cushion, oval, brilliant.
Carat: Larger tanzanite stones are rare and increase in value non‐linearly because of the scarcity of large, clean stones.

5. Tanzanite in Kenya: Mining, Trade & Legal Aspects

While Kenya doesn’t produce tanzanite, there is a vibrant trade. Importers must ensure certification, origin documentation, and ethical sourcing.
Silver Oak ensures all tanzanite pieces come with authenticity guarantees and proper documentation.
Legal importation and gems regulation in Kenya are governed by the Ministry of Mines & Petroleum; always ask for proof.

6. How to Buy Authentic Tanzanite

Verify certificates from recognised gem labs (e.g. GIA, IGI).
Ask about heat treatment—most tanzanite is heat treated; untreated natural violet or burgundy hues are rare and expensive.
Examine colour under different lighting: natural daylight vs LED/incandescent.
Inspect for inclusions or fractures.
Buy from reputable jewellers—such as Silver Oak—offering guarantees.
Use internal links to your site: For example, browse our rings, pendants, or earrings collections to see tanzanite settings.

7. Caring for Tanzanite Jewellery

Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
Clean with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water.
Store separately from harder gemstones (like sapphire or diamond) to prevent scratching.
Remove jewellery before doing physical or chemical work (detergents, makeup etc.)

8. Tanzanite Jewellery Styles & Trends

Halo settings to accentuate colour.
Mixed metal designs—rose gold accentuates violet tones.
Modern minimalist cuts for everyday wear (e.g. pendants, small studs).
Statement pieces for special occasions.

Conclusion:

Tanzanite is more than just a gemstone—it’s a deep, vivid expression of luxury, beauty, and rarity. In Kenya, though not mined locally, it has found a home in fine jewellery via trusted providers like Silver Oak, ensuring authenticity, quality, and timeless design.

Explore our Tanzanite jewellery pieces: check out the pendants, earrings, and rings pages to find your perfect piece.