• When will the supply of tanzanite run out?

The supply of tanzanite is finite. Geologists estimate that the source will be depleted in a decade or so.

• Is tanzanite heated?

All tanzanite is assumed to have been heated to relatively low temperatures. This procedure is complimentary to the natural process, placing the tanzanite in a more stable valance state and with no structural or chemical alteration evident between heated and unheated tanzanite. Tanzanite is precious in every sense of the word.

• Is tanzanite a soft gem?

Tanzanite has a similar hardness to emerald but is less brittle. Tanzanite should not be worn during activities that inflict excessive wear and tears. It is ideally set as a dress ring, necklace or earrings.

• Is tanzanite a precious gem?

Absolutely. Traditionally, a gem must share three important traits in order to be classified as precious : beauty, rarity and durability. Each trait however represents a range, so all gems can possess different levels of all three traits and often of far greater influence than either beauty or durability, is rarity. Tanzanite possesses both beauty and durability, and is more than a thousand times rarer than a diamond. Tanzanite is precious in every sense of the word.

• What is the color range of tanzanite?

Tanzanite varies in color from rich, velvety Blue™ to an exotic violet. Tanzanite is classified as 'vB' denoting that the color is predominantly Blue™ over violet or 'bV' denoting that the color is more violet over Blue™. The more intense the color, the rarer the tanzanite and hence the more expensive the price per carat.

• How do I value tanzanite?

Tanzanite is graded according to the 4 C's. The 4 C's stand for: Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat weight. There is a fifth C which stands for Confidence. Being confident that your tanzanite is authentic, and that it is accompanied by the Mark of Rarity is important. The higher the combination of Color, Cut, Clarity, Carat weight and Confidence, the more rare and valuable a tanzanite is.

• How do I know that my tanzanite is authentic?

Purchase your tanzanite from a re reputable retailer or have it graded in accordance with the tanzanite quality scale.

• Will tanzanite be found in another part of the world?

Extensive geological research has proven that there is only one source of tanzanite and its geology is so unique it has been described as a 'geological phenomenon'.

• Does any money go back to the Tanzanian people?

The Tanzanite Foundation is committed to making a real difference in the lines of local communities at tanzanite's source by contributing to a social and economic upliftment. These initiatives are both meaningful and sustainable and have included to date: a medi-clinic, community centre, infrastructural upgrades, safety and security, water supply, education, Small Mines Assistance Program (SMAP - which facilitates the transfer of skills and knowledge to small scale miners) and environmental rehabilitation.