Zoisite var. Tanzanite: Block D Mine, Merelani Hills, Tanzania

Description

Species: Zoisite var. Tanzanite

Locality: Block D Mine, Merelani Hills, Manyara Region, Tanzania

Dimensions: 4.9 x 4.6 x 2.4 cm. (79.1 grams)

SOLD

Tanzanite, the gem-quality, red to violet variety of zoisite, is only found in the famous Merelani Hills District in Tanzania, in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. This gem mineral has become extremely popular in recent decades among both jewelry and gem enthusiasts and mineral collectors for obvious reasons- it is beautiful, durable, and rare. This is an excellent large, single tanzanite crystal measuring nearly 5 cm. across and weighing 79.1 grams, with great form and a rich, uniform blue color. It was sold to me as being unheated, and well-defined trichroism (change in color depending on the orientation of light relative to the crystal axes) helps confirm this. While the crystal does have some minor internal fractures, these do not come to the surface, and the condition of the crystal is excellent overall. This fine large tanzanite looks great in it’s custom acrylic display base. Ex. Alex Neufeld collection. Mark Cross photo.