Our guide to buying Tanzanite

Why it's so rare, what to look for, and pieces to invest in

Last updated: 24 December 2024

The appeal of Tanzanite, which is only found in one tiny place on Earth, is in its rarity. Its allure is in its colour, a deep ocean-like blue with flashes of violet. Tanzanite’s limited supply — it will run out this centenary — makes it a gem of a souvenir, gift, and investment. We talked to the experts at renowned jeweller Shimansky (who has a new boutique store) for advice on what to look for when buying Tanzanite.


Shimansky offers a wide range of Tanzanite jewellery. Image: Shimansky

A RARE HISTORY OF TANZANITE

Tanzanite’s origin story is very fascinating.

Formed approximately 585 million years ago, Tanzanite remained hidden beneath the Earth until its discovery in 1967. It was found in a small 4km stretch of land in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro, a unique region shaped by a volcanic eruption.

Intense heat, immense pressure, and a rare combination of elements deep within the Earth created the perfect conditions for Tanzanite to form.

Experts agree that the conditions that created Tanzanite are so unique that it is improbable to be found anywhere else on Earth.


Tanzanite jewellery handcrafted in Cape Town. Image: Shimansky

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN TANZANITE

Tanzanite is one of the world’s most coveted gems. When evaluating a piece’s value, look at the 4 Cs – cut, colour, clarity and weight, says Shimanky.

Cut: A well-cut Tanzanite sparkles in the light, while a poor cut looks dull. A poorly cut Tanzanite can make a good gemstone look inferior.

Colour: The more intense and saturated the colour, the better. The most valuable Tanzanites have deep blue or violet hues.

Clarity: This is about the number of flaws found in the stone. These are known as inclusions and occur naturally. It’s best to look for clear stones without visible marks, as they sparkle more.

Carat weight: Larger stones (over 5 carats) are rare, but medium-sized (2–4 carats) and smaller stones can still be worth purchasing if they have excellent quality.

Real or fake? Tanzanite’s rarity has led to the rise of synthetic versions and fakes. That’s why it’s essential to only buy your Tanzanite from trusted jewellers who offer certified, conflict-free stones.

Tanzanite Grading Chart. Image: Shimansky

TANZANITE AS AN INVESTMENT

Tanzanite is 1 000 times rarer than diamonds — and yet more affordable. Whether you wear Tanzanite as jewellery or keep it as a loose stone, it is a stunning and wise investment.

For the best return on your investment, choose Tanzanite gems over 5 carats. At Shimansky, you can request custom designs ranging from 5ct to 100ct.

As you shop around, remember that stones with their original, unaltered colour offer strong investment potential, while heat-treated stones - enhanced to deepen their colour - tend to lose value long-term.


Loose Tanzanite stones. Image: Shimansky

TANZANITE AS A GIFT

Tanzanite makes a unique gift (it’s considered a 24th wedding anniversary gemstone).

Shimansky’s Dancing Tanzanite Pendant is known for its sparkle, catching the light with every movement. Its beauty and accessible price make it a popular choice.

For a timeless option, the Shimansky Tanzanite Millennium Pendant offers a clean, elegant design that highlights Tanzanite’s natural beauty.


Shimansky’s Dancing Tanzanite Pendant. Image: Shimansky

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR TANZANITE

Because Tanzanite is softer than diamonds, it needs a little extra care.

Protect your piece by avoiding harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or hard impacts, and avoid wearing it during workouts. To maintain its sparkle, clean it gently with warm, soapy water and store it separately to prevent scratches.


Shimansky Tanzanite jewellery. Image: Shimansky

A JEWELLERY DESTINATION IN CAPE TOWN 

Shimansky has a brilliant new boutique with plush carpets and marble finishes, where you can browse jewellery of all sorts, from diamonds to Tanzanite.

The Shimansky store is at the V&A Waterfront opposite Louis Vuitton.


Shimansky Boutique Store, Opposite Louis Vuitton, Upper Level, V&A Waterfront | Cape Town. Image: Shimansky

SHIMANSKY JEWELLERY STORES 

Shimansky V&A is open: Daily from 9am to 9pm
Find it: Opposite Louis Vuitton, Upper Level, V&A Waterfront mall
Contact on: 021 425 9888, @shimansky.sa, Shimansky website

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LEARN MORE ABOUT GEMSTONES THAT SYMBOLISE LOVE

What makes a good diamond: Here’s a guide to buying diamonds.

Browse Shimansky’s diamonds and fine jewellery.

Have you seen the life-size Cape Town Ring? 

Learn more about the fascinating history of diamonds at this museum. 

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