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Found in just one place on earth, tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery. Tiffany & Co named this blue-violet variety of zoisite in honor of Tanzania, where it was first unearthed in 1967. Top-quality tanzanite can be violetish blue --similar to a fine sapphire color – or a unique, predominately violet hue all its own. Lighter toned pastel hues are more plentiful and affordable than vivid colors and have a subtle appeal of their own.
In recent history, rare varieties of gem quality zoisite have been unearthed. Most notably, Green Tanzanite, also known as Green Zoisite and/or Chrome Tanzanite, which gets its coloring from the presence of chromium prior to the heat treatment. Other "no-heat" varieties include Pink Zoisite, Yellow Tanzanite and Purple Zoisite.
Tanzanite is a birthstone for December and is the gem for a 24th anniversary.
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