About Tanzanite Colours: Blue to Violet. Hardness: 6 to 6 1/2

Tanzanite is a member of the rare Zoisite family, and its occurance is restricted to metamorphic rocks. It may be found only in Tanzania, East Africa. Its vivid blue colouration of Tanzanite is much sought after in the gem field and it is faceted for use in fine jewelry.

The other well known member of this family is Thulite, which is found in Norway and has a unique pink colour.

Zoisite takes its name from the late Baron S. Zois van Edelstein (1747-1819).