Updated as of June 2026
Tanzanite
A rare gem found only near Mount Kilimanjaro, associated with transformation and insight.
Price range$100 to $1,200/ct
Hardness (Mohs)6.5
ColorsBlue, Violet-blue, Purple
BirthstoneDecember
AltGems Score How we score
6.2/10
Tanzanite pros and cons
Pros
- Good durability (Mohs 6.5) for most jewelry
- Exceptional brilliance and sparkle
- Rare and collectible
- A recognized birthstone (December)
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 6.5, best in protected settings
- Can chip or cleave from a hard knock
- Commonly treated (heat treatment (nearly all stones))
Tanzanite is best kept for earrings, pendants, and protected settings rather than rough daily wear.
Explore Tanzanite
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestTanzanite jewelry
Tanzanite ringsTanzanite engagement ringsTanzanite necklacesTanzanite pendantsTanzanite earringsTanzanite bracelets
Tanzanite by cut
Round TanzaniteOval TanzaniteEmerald Cut TanzaniteCushion TanzanitePrincess TanzanitePear TanzaniteAll cuts
Tanzanite by metal
Tanzanite in yellow goldTanzanite in white goldTanzanite in rose goldTanzanite in platinumTanzanite in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 6.5) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Relatively soft and sensitive to knocks. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth only. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
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Where to buy Tanzanite: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Tanzanite?
A rare gem found only near Mount Kilimanjaro, associated with transformation and insight. It rates 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in blue, violet-blue, purple.
How much does Tanzanite cost?
Tanzanite typically runs about $100 to $1,200 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Tanzanite price guide for detail.
Is Tanzanite good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 6.5 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Tanzanite?
Tanzanite earns an overall AltGems Score of 6.2 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Tanzanite?
Relatively soft and sensitive to knocks. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth only. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.