The Allure of Tanzanite
Few gemstones capture the imagination quite like Tanzanite. Its mesmerising violet-blue hues seem to shift with every movement of light — a phenomenon that has made it one of the most sought-after treasures of the modern era. First discovered in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in the late 1960s, this African gemstone continues to enchant collectors and connoisseurs around the world.
At Prins & Prins Diamonds in Cape Town, Tanzanite holds a special place within our heritage. Each gem we select reflects not only the natural beauty of Africa but also the precision of craftsmanship and ethical integrity that define our work. Whether you are seeking a pendant, ring, or pair of earrings, understanding the hallmarks of quality will help you choose Tanzanite Jewellery Cape Town with complete confidence.
A Gem Born of Africa
Tanzanite is among the rarest gemstones on earth — found in a single, small deposit near Arusha in northern Tanzania. This extraordinary geological origin makes it up to a thousand times rarer than diamonds. Formed millions of years ago through unique tectonic and thermal processes, each crystal represents both time and transformation.
The gem’s limited source adds to its allure. Once the deposit is depleted, no more will ever emerge from the earth, ensuring Tanzanite’s future as a true collector’s stone. For South African clients, it is also a symbol of continental pride — a gemstone born of Africa and perfected through local artistry.
Colour — The Heart of Tanzanite’s Value
Colour is the most important factor when evaluating Tanzanite. The finest examples display a deep, saturated violet-blue that seems to glow from within. This phenomenon, known as pleochroism, allows the gem to exhibit different colours — blue, violet, and flashes of red — depending on the viewing angle and lighting.
When purchasing Tanzanite, look for:
- Depth of tone: richer blues and violets are more valuable.
- Evenness of colour: consistent hue across the stone shows superior cutting.
- Balance: a vivid hue without appearing overly dark.
Under Cape Town’s natural daylight, a well-cut Tanzanite will reveal a captivating dance of colour that distinguishes it from any other gem.
Clarity and Cut — Revealing the Inner Fire
Tanzanite’s clarity and cut play a crucial role in its beauty. Most stones are naturally eye-clean, meaning inclusions are minimal and do not affect transparency. A precision cut maximises both brilliance and colour saturation.
Our master cutters at Prins & Prins understand the relationship between geometry and light. Each facet is placed to reveal the gem’s finest colour zones and minimise any visible inclusions. The result is jewellery that glows with balanced light, whether viewed by daylight or candlelight — proof that true craftsmanship lies in the detail.
Carat and Proportion — The Balance of Beauty
While large Tanzanites make magnificent statement pieces, size alone does not determine value. The ideal gem balances carat weight with proportion and symmetry. A well-cut two-carat stone may display more brilliance than a heavier but poorly proportioned gem.
When viewing pieces in our showroom, notice how each setting enhances the gem rather than overwhelming it. Proportion is the secret to elegance — a principle that guides every design at Prins & Prins Diamonds.
Certification and Authenticity — Buying with Confidence
Because Tanzanite is rare and valuable, authenticity is essential. Reputable jewellers provide certification confirming origin, treatment, and quality. At Prins & Prins, every Tanzanite is individually inspected by qualified gemmologists and accompanied by proper documentation.
We source all our gems through ethical channels and support responsible mining practices in Tanzania and South Africa. This commitment ensures that when you purchase Tanzanite Jewellery Cape Town, you are investing not only in beauty but also in integrity and transparency.
Setting and Design — Heritage Meets Modern Elegance
Tanzanite’s versatility makes it ideal for both classic and contemporary designs. Its cool tones pair beautifully with platinum or white gold, while rose and yellow gold bring warmth to its violet undertones. Whether framed by diamonds or standing proudly alone, a well-designed setting enhances both protection and presence.
Inside Huguenot House, our designers work closely with clients to create bespoke pieces that reflect individual taste and story. From sketch to polish, each design is handcrafted in our workshop — combining old-world techniques with modern precision.
Caring for Tanzanite Jewellery
Tanzanite is durable enough for everyday wear, yet it deserves thoughtful care. With a hardness of around 6.5 on the Mohs scale, it is softer than sapphire or diamond and should be treated gently.
To preserve your gem’s brilliance:
- Clean it occasionally with mild soap, warm water, and a soft brush.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and sudden temperature changes.
- Store Tanzanite pieces separately to prevent scratching from harder gems.
Periodic professional cleaning at Prins & Prins ensures your jewels remain luminous for generations to come.
Why Choose Prins & Prins in Cape Town
For over four decades, Prins & Prins Diamonds has been a trusted name in fine jewellery and gemstone expertise. From our historic Huguenot House atelier, we unite scientific knowledge, traditional goldsmithing, and ethical sourcing to create heirlooms of enduring value.
Each Tanzanite we offer is hand-selected for its natural colour, integrity, and beauty. Our gemmologists and designers collaborate to transform these rare African treasures into pieces worthy of celebration — expressions of individuality that honour both heritage and innovation.
By choosing Prins & Prins, you are not only purchasing Tanzanite; you are embracing the Cape Town tradition of excellence in fine jewellery. Explore our full collection of Tanzanite Jewellery Cape Town and discover how authenticity, craftsmanship, and trust create brilliance beyond measure.
A Gemstone Worthy of Legacy
Tanzanite’s appeal lies in its duality — rare yet approachable, vivid yet soothing, contemporary yet timeless. It reminds us that the most beautiful things are often the most fleeting.
Owning a piece of Tanzanite is owning a moment of Africa’s geological history, transformed by human artistry into a legacy that can be worn and cherished. At Prins & Prins Diamonds, we honour that story in every facet, every polish, and every design — ensuring your Tanzanite reflects not only colour and light, but meaning and memory.
