December Gem-Tanzanite
December Birthdays have the honor of 3 different gemstones to celebrate with! Turquoise, Tanzanite and Zircon. Of the three, Tanzanite is the newest gem (first discovered in 1967) and has become one of the most desired gemstones for its rich purplish-blue tones, durability and wearability.
Tanzanite is found exclusively in Tanzania and prized for its captivating blue to purple colors. Most tanzanite found on the market has been heat-treated to enhance its color from brownish rough stones to vivid blue hues. Tanzanite also has a trait called pleochroism which means the stone can display multiple colors when viewed from different angles.
Tiffany & Co became the main distributor of Tanzanite in 1968, and is credited with giving Tanzanite its name in honor of its country of origin. Tiffany & Co believed that tanzanite had international appeal as a gemstone and launched a major campaign to promote it, which was a huge success.
Today, Tanzanite is not only the gemstone for December birthday’s but it is also the gem for the 24th wedding anniversary.
To care for tanzanite, avoid exposing the gem to high temperatures or sudden temperatures as the stone may crack. Warm, soapy water is the best way to clean this beautiful gem. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning is not recommended.
