tanzanite

American  

[tan-zuh-nahyt] / ˈtæn zəˌnaɪt /

noun

1. Mineralogy. a variety of zoisite valued as a gem for its purplish-blue color and strong pleochroism.

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Usage

What does tanzanite mean? Tanzanite is a gemstone that’s a variety of the mineral zoisite. Its color ranges from deep blue to violent and lighter shades of purple.Tanzanite can appear to be different colors depending on the viewing direction—a property known as pleochroism.Tanzanite is quite rare—it’s only known to be found in one location in the world: the eastern African nation of Tanzania. For this reason, tanzanite is usually quite expensive.It has not been synthetically replicated, but it is sometimes imitated with other gemstones, such as cubic zirconia.Tanzanite is one of the birthstones for the month of December. It is associated with the zodiac signs Sagittarius and Capricorn. Tanzanite jewelry is a traditional gift for a 24th wedding anniversary.Example: Tanzanite is often paired with diamonds to highlight its rich color.

Etymology

Origin of tanzanite

1965–70; named after Tanzania, where found; -ite ¹

Example Sentences

Shaped and coloured like the country’s rare gemstone, tanzanite, the sparkling new railway terminal in Dar es Salaam is a symbol of Tanzania’s transport ambitions.

From BBC

Saniniu Laizer, who works as a miner in Tanzania, has suddenly become a millionaire after finding and selling two large chunks of a gemstone called Tanzanite.

From NewsForKids.net

The stones found by Mr. Laizer were the largest samples of Tanzanite ever found.

From NewsForKids.net

The stones found by Mr. Laizer were the largest samples of Tanzanite ever found.

From NewsForKids.net

Tanzanite is a precious mineral that is famous for giving off a variety of colors.

From NewsForKids.net