Uncovering the Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone found only in one place in the world, Tanzania. This stone was discovered fairly recently, in 1967 to be exact, by a Masai tribesman named Manuel de Souza. Tanzanite quickly became popular for its stunning blue-violet hue and has been highly sought after ever since.
There are two types of tanzanites available on the market: natural and synthetic. Natural tanzanites are formed deep within the ground over millions of years through a process known as metamorphism. Synthetic tanzanites, on the other hand, are created in a laboratory using advanced techniques that mimic this natural process.
One of the key differences between natural and synthetic tanzanites is their value. Natural tanzanites are much rarer than synthetic ones, making them more valuable and expensive. The rarity of natural tanzanites can be attributed to several factors such as limited mining areas and difficulties associated with mining it.
The color is another factor that differentiates natural from synthetic tanzanites. Natural tanzanite usually has uneven color distribution due to variations in mineral composition during formation; this gives it an appealing depth that can’t be replicated by synthetics. Synthetics may have even coloring but lack the vibrancy or depth present in genuine stones.
In terms of durability, both natural and synthetic tanzanite share similar characteristics since they have almost identical properties like hardness (6-7 Mohs), refractive index (1.691-1.700), specific gravity (3.35) among others.
Synthetic gems are often preferred because they offer more consistency with regard to their appearance than naturally occurring minerals which exhibit different features depending on their location at any given time; however some consumers prefer owning something completely unique and one-of-a-kind like a real gemstone.
It’s important to note that buying either type does not guarantee quality. It is important to purchase from reputable dealers who can offer a certificate of authenticity and provide information on the origin of the stone.
In conclusion, natural tanzanites are rare, valuable, and have unique color variations that make them highly sought after in the jewelry industry. Synthetic tanzanites are more affordable but lack the uniqueness and depth of real gems. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages; it ultimately depends on personal preference when making a purchase decision. Whichever type you choose, be sure to buy from trusted sources to ensure your investment is worthwhile.