Tanzanite and amethyst are two of the most popular gemstones used in jewelry today. Both are prized for their beautiful colors and have their own unique places in the world of gemstones, yet they differ significantly in terms of their origins, chemical composition, physical properties, and cultural significance. This essay explores these differences in detail, providing an in-depth comparison of the two stones.
Origins and Discovery
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery in the world of gemstones. It was first unearthed in 1967 in Northern Tanzania near the Mererani Hills, which remains the only known source for this rare gem. Named after its country of origin, tanzanite quickly gained popularity, partly due to its vibrant blue and violet hues and partly because of marketing efforts by Tiffany & Co., which became a major distributor shortly after the gemstone’s discovery.
Amethyst
Amethyst, on the other hand, has been known since ancient times. It is a form of quartz, widely distributed across different parts of the world including Brazil, Uruguay, Siberia, and the United States. Historically, amethyst was highly valued by ancient Greeks and Romans who believed it could prevent intoxication—a quality that gives the gem its name, derived from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “not intoxicated.”
Chemical Composition and Color
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is composed of calcium aluminium hydroxy silicate. Its striking blue and violet colors are due to the presence of vanadium. Tanzanite can also exhibit a range of colors depending on its crystal orientation and lighting conditions, including shades of blue, violet, and even burgundy under incandescent light. This trichroism is a distinctive feature of tanzanite, setting it apart from most other gemstones.
Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, which is silicon dioxide. The color of amethyst ranges from light pinkish violet to a deep grape purple and can vary in intensity from one part of the crystal to another. Its purple color is attributed to irradiation and impurities of iron and other transition metals. Unlike tanzanite, amethyst’s color is fairly consistent, regardless of the light source.
Physical Properties
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, with a rating of about 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it more susceptible to being scratched during everyday wear and thus it is often recommended for earrings and pendants rather than rings. Tanzanite is also known for its perfect cleavage, which means it can split easily if struck with force, requiring careful handling and setting.
Amethyst
Amethyst is slightly harder than tanzanite, with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more suitable for a variety of jewelry settings, including rings, which are more prone to knocks and scratches. Amethyst does not have cleavage, which makes it less likely to chip or break compared to tanzanite.
Rarity and Value
Tanzanite
Because it is found in only one location in the world and is a thousand times rarer than diamonds, tanzanite is considered to be extremely valuable and rare. The finest quality tanzanite can fetch very high prices, particularly for stones that show a deep, saturated blue or violet color. However, the market for tanzanite is somewhat volatile due to the limited supply and the political and economic conditions of the mining area.
Amethyst
Amethyst was once highly valued and considered one of the cardinal gems, alongside diamond, sapphire, ruby, and emerald. However, after large deposits were found in Brazil in the 19th century, its rarity and value decreased. Today, amethyst remains abundantly available and is considerably more affordable than tanzanite. This accessibility makes amethyst a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Tanzanite
Due to its recent discovery, tanzanite does not have the rich historical lore that many other gemstones possess. However, it has quickly established itself as a birthstone for December, alongside turquoise and zircon. Its exclusivity and striking beauty have made it a favored gem in modern jewelry design.
Amethyst
Amethyst carries a deep cultural and historical significance that spans many centuries and cultures. In ancient times, it was considered a “gem of fire,” a precious stone worth, at times, as much as a diamond. Amethyst has been used in the crowns and regalia of royalty and was particularly favored during the Renaissance period. It is also the birthstone for February and is believed to bring clarity and tranquility to the wearer.
Conclusion
While both tanzanite and amethyst enchant with their unique and mesmerizing hues, they cater to different tastes, preferences, and budgets in the jewelry market. Tanzanite, with its exceptional rarity and vibrant trichroic colors, offers an exclusive choice for those looking for something uniquely beautiful and often more luxurious. Its singular source and the fascinating conditions under which it forms add to its allure and desirability among collectors and gem enthusiasts.
On the other hand, amethyst provides a more accessible option without sacrificing beauty. Its rich history, widespread availability, and variety in hues make it a versatile gemstone that can be enjoyed in a myriad of settings and styles. Amethyst’s historical significance and its reputed calming properties also add layers of meaning to its physical beauty, making it a favored choice for those who value both aesthetics and the cultural lore associated with their gemstones.
When choosing between tanzanite and amethyst, considerations such as the intended use of the gemstone, personal preferences for color and rarity, and the budget at hand will play crucial roles. For those looking to make a statement with a piece of fine jewelry, tanzanite’s rare and captivating essence might be the perfect choice. However, for everyday wear and for those who appreciate historical significance and a broader palette of purple shades, amethyst stands out as an excellent choice.
Ultimately, whether one leans towards the lush, deep blues and violets of tanzanite or the historically rich purples of amethyst, both gemstones offer their own unique set of qualities that can enhance any jewelry collection. Each gem has its own story, a distinct set of properties, and a beauty that resonates with different individuals for various reasons. This diversity in choice and the stories that come with each stone underscore the fascinating world of gemstones and the personal connections we forge with these treasures of the earth.
