Selecting the perfect Tanzanite can feel like navigating a kaleidoscope of blues and purples, each stone offering its own unique charm. Add considerations around clarity, cut, and ethical sourcing, and the process might seem overwhelming.
At The Bilal, we believe an informed buyer is a confident buyer.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to identifying the best Tanzanite for your style and budget.
FOCUS ON COLOR
For Tanzanite, color is key. Premium-grade stones usually exhibit a rich, saturated hue which often described as “royal blue with flashes of violet.”
Lighter shades may appear more lavender or pastel. While deeper colors typically command higher prices, lighter Tanzanites can be equally beautiful and more budget-friendly.
The important thing is to choose a color that resonates with you.
EVALUATE CLARITY
Like most gemstones, Tanzanite can have inclusions. These small flaws are often tiny crystals or fractures formed within the stone.
While minor inclusions may not affect overall beauty, large or obvious flaws can reduce both the stone’s brilliance and its value.
When shopping, look for stones described as “eye-clean,” meaning they lack noticeable inclusions when viewed with the naked eye.
ASSESS THE CUT
A well-cut Tanzanite will maximize color and brilliance by allowing light to pass through the stone at optimal angles.
Cut also plays a pivotal role in showcasing Tanzanite’s pleochroism, the phenomenon where it reveals different colors from different viewpoints.
Whether you prefer classic shapes (round, oval) or more modern cuts (teardrop, cushion), the gem’s symmetry and proportions should be well-balanced to truly shine.
CHECK CARAT WEIGHT AND RARITY
Carat weight affects cost, but bigger doesn’t always mean better if color and clarity are compromised.
Larger, high-quality Tanzanites can be extremely rare, and therefore expensive.
Consider your personal priorities: do you value an intensely saturated smaller stone, or do you want a larger piece with slightly more subdued color?
REQUEST A CERTIFICATE
Lab certificates (e.g., from GIA or other reputable gemological labs) often include details like color grade, clarity assessment, cut quality, and any treatments.
Heat treatment is considered standard and permanent for Tanzanite, enhancing its natural hues. Confirming these details in a certificate can give you peace of mind and protect your investment.
At The Bilal, we partner with reputable gemological experts, including Global Gemological Lab (GGL) in Kuala Lumpur, to ensure that each Tanzanite stone undergoes accurate, professional evaluation.
A GGL certificate details color grade, clarity, cut, and any treatments, offering you both peace of mind and a solid foundation for your investment.
BUYER TIPS FROM THE BILAL
- Compare Multiple Stones: Sometimes seeing multiple Tanzanites side by side helps you identify your color preference.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to inquire about pleochroism, sourcing details, and care instructions.
- Consider Your Setting: The choice of metal (silver, platinum, etc.) can accentuate or soften Tanzanite’s color. We’ll be happy to guide you on metal options that best showcase the gem.
Choosing the perfect tanzanite is about balancing color, clarity, cut, and carat considerations.
By focusing on these key factors and working with a trustworthy jeweler like The Bilal, you’ll discover a Tanzanite piece that aligns perfectly with your personal taste, one that can retain its value for years to come.
After all, Tanzanite is no ordinary gem, and the care you invest in choosing it reflects the same sense of exclusivity that defines this remarkable stone.
If you’re still deciding whether Tanzanite truly suits your needs, stay tuned for our next post, where we compare two iconic blue stones in detail: “Tanzanite vs. Sapphire: Which Gemstone Should You Buy?” This side-by-side look will help you confidently select the gem that’s right for you.