Tanzanite is a rare gemstone only found in one place in the world. Its rarity has made it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, with people paying more per carat than diamonds to obtain it.
Origins
Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, so far the only place where the gem has been found. Originally called "blue zoisite," this gemstone was first brought to market by Tiffany's, who proposed that the name be changed to "tanzanite" because of the original name's similar pronunciation to "suicide." The less depressing name stuck.
Color
Tanzanite is typically blue in color, with undertones of purple and red, but has also been found in shades of gray, brown, violet and green. This stone is one of few that can display up to three colors when rotated in the light.
Price
In 1967, tanzanite sold for around $20 a carat; by 1984, it was selling for about $1000 a carat due to a 1978 epidemic of cholera that limited the mining of many gems. As of 2010, the price of tanzanite ranged from around $600 to $1200 per carat, with prices expected to climb to $10,000 to $15,000 per carat because of the scarcity of quality stones.
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