Mar 11 , 2024
HOW TO ENSURE YOU'RE BUYING An Authentic Tanzanite Gemstone?
How to Ensure You're Buying Authentic Tanzanite Gemstone?
Gemstones have long been revered for their elegance, symbolizing sophistication and status. They're not just accessories but investments, owing to their rarity and enduring value. However, in today's market flooded with synthetics and counterfeits, discerning the authentic from the fake can be daunting, especially for novices. Tanzanite, in particular, stands out as a target for counterfeiters due to its scarcity. Here’s your comprehensive guide to ensuring that your tanzanite purchase is genuine.
Understanding Tanzanite
Tanzanite, a trichroic gemstone, displays three distinct colors when viewed from different angles. Its standard hue is an inky blue, with overtones of red and violet apparent under varying lighting conditions. Genuine tanzanite exhibits this unique play of colors, a key indicator of authenticity.
Basic Inspection
To spot a real tanzanite, examine it under different lighting. In bright white fluorescent light, it should appear as a deep royal blue, while softer, warmer light may reveal purple and reddish tones. Any deviation from these colors signals a fake. Additionally, magnification reveals natural inclusions, imperfections absent in lab-produced imitations.
Expert Techniques
Professionals often use birefringence as a marker of authenticity. Tanzanite’s low birefringence index distinguishes it from lab-made forsterite, which exhibits a doubling effect when viewed through a magnifying glass. By scrutinizing the crown facets for a two-sided appearance on the pavilion side, experts can confirm genuine tanzanite.
Buying Tips
- Color and Size: Darker, vibrant hues command higher prices, with larger stones typically exhibiting richer colors. Conversely, smaller stones tend towards pastel shades. A gem’s value correlates with its color saturation.
- Color Variations: Tanzanite blends blue and violet hues, visible through tilting and rocking the stone. Whether more blue or violet, there's no difference in pricing.
- Trusted Sources: Purchase tanzanite from reputable sellers and consider appraisal services for added assurance.
Conclusion
In a market fraught with replicas, ensuring the authenticity of your tanzanite purchase is paramount. By familiarizing yourself with the unique qualities of this gemstone and employing expert inspection techniques, you can confidently acquire genuine tanzanite jewelry. Remember, investing in authenticity ensures enduring value and timeless beauty.