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; see -ite ¹

Example Sentences

Campbell Bridges had a long relationship with the Smithsonian that began in 1967, when he traded some of his tanzanite specimens to the museum for some of its tourmaline collection, Bruce Bridges said.

From Washington Post • Apr. 19, 2023

Saniniu Laizer, 52, became an overnight millionaire in June after he sold two violet-blue tanzanite gemstones said to be the largest ever found in the country.

From Fox News • Aug. 7, 2020

At the time he said 40% of tanzanite produced there was being lost.

From The Guardian • Jun. 24, 2020

They have been the Achilles heel along the tanzanite value chain.

From BBC • Sep. 25, 2015

The man we meet looks to be in mid-30s, and says he's been "trading tanzanite for 10 years now".

From BBC • Sep. 25, 2015