Skip to main content
Inspiration

Discover the Brilliance of Tanzanite

By Amanda Evans 3 Minute Read

As one of December’s three birthstones – the rarity and vivid blue-violet hues of tanzanite render it a particularly spectacular jewel.

tanzanite - mw.png

Whether you are fortunate enough to have been born in December or seek a gemstone with an exquisite colour, then tanzanite is for you. Treasured for its relative rarity and striking blue-violet hues, tanzanite is an incredibly special gemstone, most fitting for this most wonderful time of the year.

Discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzanite is a relative newcomer to the gemstone world. Named after the country of its founding, Tanzanite has gained momentum in its popularity and was added to the official birthstone list in 2002. Its rarity adds to its appeal, formed 585 million years ago under exceptional circumstances, the odds of it being discovered anywhere else in the world are one in a million. So, if you’re wondering if the source of tanzanite will ever be depleted, sadly the answer is yes – unless another source happens to be found.

One thousand times rarer than a diamond and mined in a single location - tanzanite is known as the gemstone of a generation.Daniella Jayes – Mappin & Webb Jewellery buyer

Maybe you’re attracted to this gemstone by its scarcity, or the appeal of potentially owning a piece of gemstone history, or perhaps you’re just mesmerized by the rich velvety hues of blue and violet that present themselves in striking pieces of jewellery. There are so many compelling reasons to own a piece of tanzanite.


Explore our buyers’ edit of favourite tanzanite pieces, available here at Mappin & Webb.

Tanzanite and Diamonds – The Perfect Partnership

Mounted alone in a piece of jewellery, tanzanite is hypnotic as you dive into its rich blue-violet hues. Accompanied by other gemstones, such as diamonds, elevates tanzanite to another level. The bright white scintillating sparkle of diamonds presents the perfect frame to this striking, coloured gemstone, enriching its vibrancy and making a powerful statement. Whether you’re looking for an unusual engagement ring or a statement cocktail ring, our 18ct white gold emerald cut tanzanite and diamond ring is quite spectacular. The 2.76ct emerald cut tanzanite is framed with baguette cut diamonds with further diamonds mounted onto the shoulders that enhance its splendour. Pair with this matching emerald cut tanzanite and diamond pendant and stunning 18ct white gold diamond bracelet, featuring 19.8cttw of brilliant and emerald cut diamonds, for a total look that will really turn heads.

If you’re looking for a coloured stone engagement ring then the inimitable tanzanite is the perfect heirloom choice, symbolic of your unique love.

Elevate Your Look

Tanzanite harnesses such vibrancy that it can bring superb energy to any look. Whether it’s a simple black cocktail dress, a casual look that needs brightening up, or an ‘up-do’ that yearns for some attention with the perfect pair of earrings such as our 18ct white gold tanzanite and diamond drop earrings. Pair with our stunning 7.11cttw diamond tennis bracelet to complete the look.


Or for a showstopping statement then our platinum oval cut tanzanite and diamond ring is quite exquisite, displaying an impressive 4.50ct oval tanzanite amongst oval, and round brilliant cut diamonds in a beautiful setting.

Explore our stunning tanzanite jewellery here at Mappin & Webb online or visit us in store at one of our showrooms where our jewellery experts will be delighted to help you find the perfect gift.

Respect for your Data: Capturing personal information from you helps us provide the best possible service, we respect and do all we can to protect your privacy. For full details of your rights in relation to the information collected, how we use it, who we share it with, how long we keep it and how to end any use of that information by us, please read our Privacy Policy.

Back To Top