Tanzanite vs Sapphire: What’s the difference? - Stunning Blue

Tanzanite vs Sapphire: What’s the difference?

Tanzanite and Sapphire are two of the most beautiful gemstones in the world, and they both commonly come in the color blue, although tanzanite has more violet hues, so what is the difference between Tanzanite and Sapphire?

Sapphire gemstone

Sapphires come from all over the world. It is one of the most amazing creations of gems and measures 9 on the Mohs’ scale of hardness and is therefore one of the hardest gemstones known to man, second only to the diamond. This makes sapphires extremely hard to scratch and can be worn every day in an engagement ring.

Sapphires come in all colors. Most well-known is the beautiful range of blues that can be produced.

Tanzanite gemstone

Tanzanite is very different to sapphire. It is a type of zoisite and is much softer than sapphire.

Tanzanite measures 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs’s scale of hardness. This means Tanzanite is more prone to bumps and scratches than harder stones such as sapphire. For this reason, tanzanite is a better choice for less-worn jewelry than sapphires.

While sapphire can come in many colors, tanzanite only comes in blue and violet, and a mix in between.

Differences between Tanzanite and Sapphire – Color, Clarity, Durability, Price

Tanzanite and sapphire are two of the most popular gemstones on the market, and while they may look similar at first glance, there are several differences worth noting.

Tanzanite is known for its striking violet-blue color, which can range from vivid to subtle depending on the lighting.

Sapphire, on the other hand, comes in a variety of hues, including blue, pink, yellow, and even white. When it comes to clarity, tanzanite has a more intense internal structure, making it less translucent than sapphire. In terms of durability, sapphire is the harder of the two, making it more resistant to scratches and chipping. Finally, it’s worth noting that tanzanite tends to be more expensive than sapphire due to its rarity and limited supply.

Both of these precious stones have their own unique qualities and charm, making them a desirable addition to any jewelry collection.

Is tanzanite more valuable than sapphire?

Tanzanite and sapphire are two of the most popular gemstones in the world. Both are remarkable for their beauty, durability, and versatility. However, when it comes to their value, tanzanite seems to be the clear winner. Tanzanite is rarer and much more unique than sapphire.

It is only found in one place in the world – Tanzania, hence its name. Its rarity makes it far more valuable than sapphire, which is a widely available gemstone.

Tanzanite’s value also depends on its size, color, and clarity, which further increases its price. Overall, if you are looking for a gemstone that’s worth your investment, tanzanite is definitely the way to go.

Is Tanzanite more expensive than sapphire?

Sapphires can be quite expensive, depending on the size, color, cut, and clarity, and can range from anywhere between $500 per carat to $6,000 per carat.

In comparison to sapphire, tanzanite is also expensive and will generally fetch prices of $400 to $700 per carat, depending on the color vibrancy and size.

Is sapphire better than tanzanite?

When it comes to precious gemstones, there’s always a debate on which one is better than the other. In this case, is sapphire better than tanzanite?

Well, it’s like comparing apples to oranges. Both are stunning in their own unique way and have distinctive characteristics that make them a valuable addition to any jewelry collection. Sapphires come in a range of colors, but it’s the blue-hued ones that make them highly sought-after.

On the other hand, tanzanites are known for their mesmerizing violet-blue hue and are a relatively new discovery. Ultimately, the choice between sapphire and tanzanite comes down to personal taste and the occasion you’re buying it for.

Why is tanzanite cheaper than sapphire?

If you’ve ever compared tanzanite and sapphire, you may have noticed that tanzanite is often cheaper. So why is this stunning gemstone so much more affordable than its blue-hued counterpart?

One key factor is supply and demand. While sapphire has been a popular gemstone for centuries, tanzanite was only discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s. This means that there is simply less tanzanite available on the market compared to sapphire. Additionally, tanzanite is a softer stone, which makes it more susceptible to damage.

This can also affect its price point. Nonetheless, tanzanite remains a beautiful and unique gemstone that is loved by many.

Is tanzanite precious or semiprecious?

Tanzanite, with its striking blue-violet hue, has been captivating gemstone enthusiasts since its discovery in Tanzania in 1967. However, the debate over whether it should be classified as precious or semiprecious still lingers.

Despite being relatively rare and coveted for its unique color, tanzanite is technically categorized as a semiprecious stone. This distinction is largely due to its market availability and pricing in comparison to other precious gemstones such as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.

Nevertheless, tanzanite remains a highly sought-after gemstone for its beauty, durability, and exotic origin. Whether or not it is deemed precious or semiprecious, tanzanite continues to hold its place among the most coveted gems in the world.

Pros and Cons of Each Gemstone – Which is Right For You

Choosing the right gemstone for yourself can be an overwhelming task, considering the vast array of options available. Each gemstone has its own unique features, characteristics and benefits, along with some drawbacks. Diamonds, for instance, are known for their brilliance and durability, but are quite expensive.

On the other hand, pearls exude a classic elegance, however, they are prone to scratching and require special care. Similarly, emeralds and rubies are loved for their rich hues, but are comparatively softer and less durable. Understanding the pros and cons of each gemstone can help you make an informed decision about which stone is right for you.

Is Tanzanite actually rare?

You betcha! Tanzanite is extraordinarily rare. Due to only being found in one location in the world (at the foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro), tanzanite is extremely rare and very valuable.

Is Tanzanite worth buying?

Sapphire is by far the more rare and most luxurious gem of the two, however, if you are after something different, rarer, and slightly more affordable, then a stunning piece featuring tanzanite is a great addition to your collection of jewelry.

Back to blog