How to Spot Authentic Tanzanite in Kenya

Tanzanite, with its alluring blue‐violet glow, is one of the most sought‐after gemstones. Unfortunately, its popularity has led to imitations, mislabelling, and under‐disclosed treatments. If you’re considering investing in a tanzanite piece — perhaps from Silver Oak’s pendants, rings, or earrings collections — it helps to know how to spot the real thing. Here’s your guide to identifying authentic tanzanite in Kenya.

How to Spot Authentic Tanzanite in Kenya

1. Know the Science of Tanzanite

• Trichroism: Authentic tanzanite shows three different colours when viewed from different angles (usually blue, violet, burgundy).

• Heat Treatment: Most tanzanite stones are heat treated to remove brownish hues and enhance the blue/violet tones. Unusual colours or a natural, “untreated” label should come with lab verification.

2. Visual Inspection: Colour, Clarity & Cut

• Colour: Rich, deep blue‐violet tones are more valuable. If the stone looks flat or too light, it may be low quality or not tanzanite.

• Clarity: While some inclusions are expected, high quality tanzanite is “eye‐clean”—no visible flaws without magnification.

• Cut: A good cut will bring out the best colour and reduce visibility of inclusions. Wrong cuts can make colour look dull.

3. Tests You Can Do

• Light Test: Observe under different lights—daylight vs indoor lighting. Authentic tanzanite’s colour changes slightly.

• Magnification: Use a jeweller’s loupe (10×) to look for characteristic inclusions; bubbles often suggest glass or synthetic imitations.

• Scratch Test (very carefully!) Not recommended unless you’re experienced—tanzanite is only ~6–7 on Mohs hardness, so don’t risk damaging.

4. What to Ask Your Jeweller

• “Do you have a certificate?” If so, from which lab (GIA, IGI etc.).

• “Has this stone been heat treated?” If yes, how, and is this disclosed.

• “What is the origin of the gemstone?” While many tanzanites come from Tanzania, traceability and ethical sourcing are signs of a trustworthy seller.

• “Can I see the stone from all angles / lighting?” Obvious colour shifts suggest genuine tanzanite.

5. Beware Imitations & Common Tricks

• Synthetic or lab‐created stones (simulated zoisite, or glass dyed to look like tanzanite).

• Overly saturated or unnaturally vivid colours might suggest dyeing or coating.

• Stones that are too cheap relative to size and clarity—“if it seems too good to be true…”

6. Certifications & Return Policies

• Always get documentation. At Silver Oak, our gemstones come with authenticity guarantees.

• Return or repair policies help protect your purchase. (Link to Silver Oak’s Returns Policy page.)

Conclusion

Spotting authentic tanzanite is a mix of science, observation, and choosing the right jeweller. When you buy from trusted places—like Silver Oak, which offers certified stones, clear policies, and a passion for craftsmanship—you’ll feel confident in the beauty, value, and integrity of what you wear.