Tanzanite beads , named for the country of its origin, is the transparent dark blue to blue-violet gem variety of the mineral zoisite. Because it is only found on one place on earth, it’s considered rarer than diamonds. Tanzanite is known for its strong pleochroism: Depending on the direction of the light, its color changes from amethyst to violet-blue to brown. Most tanzanite is heat-treated so that only the rich blue color--which comes from trace amounts of vanadium—remains. The finest tanzanite is mostly blue with violet accents. Officially “discovered” in 1967, tanzanite is considered one of the newest gemstones, yet because its source is so limited—a narrow piece of land near Kilimanjaro--some geologists estimate that the world’s supply of tanzanite could be depleted within 15 years.

Tanzanite beads
Astrology: recently designated a December birthstone
Chakra: 6th (third eye) and 7th (crown)
Metaphysically, tanzanite is considered a “stone of magic” that can connect the wearer with the spirits of the ancients. It’s also said to helpful in communicating psychic visions and in encounters with beings from other planes.

Often compared to sapphire because of its rich blue, tanzanite beads are actually quite a bit softer on Mohs’ scale – a 6 ½ vs. sapphire’s 9-- yet it’s surprisingly resistant to scratching. However, the stone is brittle and can chip, so if you use the beads in a bracelet, wear it with care.
Tanzanite beads are spectacular when paired with black opal. They’re also lovely with pearls, rubies, emeralds, rubellite, garnet, and peridot.

Tanzanite Color: Sapphire-blue, amethyst, violet
Chemical composition: Ca2Al3 (O/OH/SiO4/SiO2) calcium aluminium silicate
Mohs’ hardness: 6 ½-7
Transparency: Transparent
Luster: Vitreous
Fracture: Uneven, brittle
Crystal system: Orthorhombic, multi-faceted prisms, mostly striated
Cleavage: Perfect
Specific gravity: 3.35
Refractive index: 1.691-1.700
Dispersion: 0.030
Pleochroism: Very strong; violet, blue, brown
Fluorescence: None
Occurrence: East Africa (Tanzania)