Tanzanite and Sapphire: Two Blue Beauties Go Head to Head

When it comes to blue gemstones, tanzanite and sapphire are two of the most popular and highly sought after. Both are known for their stunning beauty and luxurious appearance, making them a popular choice for jewelry lovers around the world. But which one is truly the ultimate blue gemstone? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the characteristics of tanzanite and sapphire, and compare them side by side in the ultimate blue gemstone showdown.

Color
One of the most distinctive features of both tanzanite and sapphire is their beautiful blue color. Tanzanite is known for its unique violet-blue hue, which can range from pale blue to deep indigo. Sapphire, on the other hand, can come in a range of blue shades, from light sky blue to deep navy. Both gemstones are stunning in their own right, but the unique color of tanzanite is what sets it apart from other blue gemstones.

Clarity
The clarity of a gemstone refers to how free it is from inclusions, or internal flaws. Tanzanite is known for being a relatively clear gemstone, with few inclusions visible to the naked eye. Sapphire, on the other hand, can have more inclusions, but they are often not visible to the untrained eye. Both gemstones are known for their clarity, making them a popular choice for those who value a clean, clear look in their jewelry.

Durability
When it comes to durability, sapphire is the clear winner. Sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones in the world, ranking 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Tanzanite, on the other hand, is a softer gemstone, ranking 6.5-7 on the same scale. This means that sapphire is less likely to scratch, chip, or crack than tanzanite, making it a more durable choice for everyday wear.

Rarity
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, having been discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s. It is only found in one place in the world, making it a relatively rare gemstone. Sapphire, on the other hand, is found in many places around the world, including Australia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. While some types of sapphires, such as the rare pink and orange varieties, can be quite rare, blue sapphires are more commonly available.

Value
The value of a gemstone is determined by a number of factors, including its color, clarity, rarity, and demand. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, and its value has risen steadily over the years as its popularity has grown. However, it is still considered to be a more affordable gemstone than sapphire, which is a more established gemstone with a long history of use in jewelry. Natural sapphire rings, for example, can command a high price due to their rarity and beauty.

Buying Tanzanite and Sapphire Jewelry
If you’re interested in buying tanzanite or sapphire jewelry, there are a number of things to consider. For tanzanite, it’s important to buy from a reputable source to ensure that you’re getting a high-quality, natural gemstone. The best place to buy tanzanite jewelry is from a trusted jeweler or online retailer that specializes in tanzanite. When buying online, be sure to read reviews from other customers and check the retailer’s return policy before making a purchase.

For sapphire, it’s important to consider the origin of the gemstone. Some sapphires are treated with heat or other processes to enhance their color or clarity, so it’s important to buy from a retailer that guarantees that their sapphires are natural and untreated. Natural sapphire rings can be found at many jewelers and online retailers, but again, it’s important to read reviews and check the retailer’s reputation before making a purchase.

In conclusion, both tanzanite Vs sapphire are stunning blue gemstones with their own unique characteristics and qualities. While sapphire may be the more durable and established gemstone, tanzanite’s unique color and relative rarity make it a popular choice for those looking for something a little more unique. When buying tanzanite or sapphire jewelry, it’s important to do your research and buy from a reputable source to ensure that you’re getting a high-quality, natural gemstone that will last for years to come.