Among the vast array of blue gemstones, blue sapphire and tanzanite stand out for their stunning beauty and distinct characteristics. These two gemstones captivate collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike, not only for their mesmerizing colors but also for their individual properties, symbolism, and astrological significance.
In this article, we will provide a comparative analysis of these two magnificent gemstones: blue sapphire and tanzanite. By examining their physical properties, mineral families, and unique features, we aim to offer a comprehensive understanding of what sets these gems apart and their appeal in both jewelry and astrology.
Blue Sapphire vs. Tanzanite - A Comparative Analysis
When deciding between these two gemstones, several key factors should be considered. Below, we've highlighted important parameters to help guide you in making a well-informed choice.
What Is a Blue Sapphire?
Blue sapphire is one of the most well-known and coveted gemstones, recognized for its deep blue hue and brilliance. Revered across different cultures and periods, it is admired not only for its beauty but also for its symbolic significance. Associated with wisdom, loyalty, and protection, blue sapphire has been historically linked to bringing clarity and focus to its wearer, making it a popular stone for personal empowerment. It also holds significant astrological value, especially in Vedic traditions, where it is linked to Saturn and used to align energy for those seeking mental stability and success. Additionally, as the traditional birthstone for September, blue sapphire is often cherished for its connection to strength, nobility, and spiritual insight.
What Is a Tanzanite?
Tanzanite, a rare and mesmerizing gemstone, is celebrated for its captivating blend of blue and violet hues. Beyond its physical beauty, tanzanite is said to hold spiritual qualities, aiding in emotional clarity and personal transformation. Recognized as one of the modern birthstones for December, it symbolizes spiritual growth and heightened awareness.
Tiffany & Co. is credited with naming the gemstone "tanzanite" following its discovery in Tanzania in the late 1960s. The name was chosen to reflect its distinct geographic origin, and Tiffany played a key role in introducing this gem to the world. Today, the brand showcases a stunning selection of tanzanite jewellery, including earrings, engagement rings and necklaces, often paired with diamonds in elegant platinum settings. This combination enhances the gemstone’s vibrant blue-purple tones, further highlighting its beauty and sophistication.
1. Sources & Origins
Blue sapphire is formed deep within the Earth's crust under intense heat and pressure, which results in its famous hardness and deep blue coloration. The primary sources of blue sapphire gemstones include Sri Lanka, known for producing stones with a lighter, almost cornflower blue, and Kashmir, which historically produced some of the most highly prized sapphires, known for their rich, velvety blue. Other important sapphire-producing regions are Madagascar, Myanmar, and Thailand, each contributing unique variations of blue sapphire to the market.
Other variants in the sapphire family, such as yellow sapphire (pukhraj), white sapphire and ruby (manik), also come from the same corundum mineral family. Despite the popularity of these alternative colors, the deep blue hue of blue sapphire remains one of the most sought-after.
Major sources of Blue Sapphire stones include Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Myanmar (Burma), Kashmir, and Thailand, among others (Image Source: Knox Jewelers)
Tanzanite was discovered relatively recently in 1967, in a small mining area near Mount Kilimanjaro, specifically in the Merelani Hills in the Simanjiro District of Manyara Region in Tanzania. Unlike blue sapphire, which is mined in various locations worldwide, tanzanite comes from a single location, making it one of the rarest gemstones on Earth. It is created when the mineral zoisite is subjected to high temperatures and pressures over millions of years, often in the presence of vanadium, which contributes to its distinctive blue-violet color.
Geologically, tanzanite belongs to the zoisite mineral family and is prized for its trichroic properties, meaning it displays different colors—blue, violet, and burgundy—when viewed from different angles. Though it lacks the historical depth of blue sapphire, tanzanite has quickly gained recognition for its rarity and exceptional beauty. The fact that the gemstone is found only in Tanzania adds to its allure, with experts predicting that the limited mines may be depleted in the coming decades, which has only increased its desirability and status in the world of fine gemstones.
2. Colors
The deep, rich blue of blue sapphire is its most defining characteristic and a major factor in its value. The blue color results from trace amounts of iron and titanium within the gemstone. The most prized blue sapphires are those with a vivid, uniform blue that is neither too dark nor too light. Although inclusions are common, the most valuable stones are eye-clean, meaning the inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. Larger sapphires, above 4-5 carats, are particularly rare, and their value increases exponentially with size, especially if they maintain their rich color and clarity.
Blue Sapphires (Neelam) occur in a range of blue hues
Variants like yellow sapphire, white and pink sapphire offer different color options, but the classic blue remains the most coveted, with significant price differences based on hue, tone, and saturation. Blue sapphire’s ability to maintain its stunning color even in large stones adds to its appeal, making it a staple in high-end jewellery like earrings, engagement rings and more.
Tanzanite is known for its mesmerizing blue-violet color, which is one of the reasons it stands out among gemstones. Its unique color is due to trace elements of vanadium, and this blue-violet hue can shift depending on how the stone is viewed. The intensity of the blue or violet shades often depends on the cut and orientation of the gemstone, with the best stones showing a balance of both colors.
Virtually all Tanzanites are heated to achieve their blue hues
Like blue sapphire, inclusions in tanzanite can affect the stone’s overall appearance and value. In most cases, they do not significantly diminish the gem's beauty because the intense color can mask minor imperfections. Larger carats of tanzanite can reveal even more of its pleochroic nature, with the color shifting dramatically under different lighting conditions.
The depth and brilliance of tanzanite's color often make it a popular choice for earrings, pendants, and engagement rings. Though not as durable as blue sapphire, its vibrant color continues to drive its demand in jewellery.
3. Symbolism & Beliefs
Blue sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and protection. It is an important part of the Navratna gemstones, and has various astrological benefits associated with it. In ancient times, it was thought to guard the wearer against envy and harm, and it was often worn by royalty and religious leaders as a symbol of power and divine favor. Kings and queens wore blue sapphire to ensure their rule would be just and protected from negative forces, and it was often set into crowns and royal jewelry for its symbolism.
Historically, blue sapphire, much like peridot has been linked to mental clarity, discipline, and focus, qualities that made it a popular stone for scholars and leaders. Wearers of blue sapphire believed the stone would help them maintain integrity and make wise decisions. Like peridot, it is also said to foster inner peace, calm the mind, and help balance emotions, which made it especially popular during periods of conflict or uncertainty.
Tanzanite is considered a gemstone of spiritual growth and transformation. Those who wear tanzanite often believe that it enhances emotional healing, helping them overcome personal obstacles and grow on a spiritual level.
As one of the modern birthstones for December, tanzanite offers an alternative to more traditional stones like garnet and opal. It symbolizes new beginnings and personal transformation, making it especially meaningful for those undergoing significant life changes. Compared to garnet, which is often linked to protection and energy, and opal, which symbolizes creativity and inspiration, tanzanite is more closely associated with emotional and spiritual awakening.
4. Rarity & Value
The value of a blue sapphire stone is determined by factors like carat weight, color, and inclusions. Stones with a vivid, deep blue hue and minimal inclusions are the most sought-after and command the highest prices. The richer and more uniform the blue, the more valuable the stone. Larger, high-quality blue sapphires are particularly rare and valuable.
Compared to yellow, white and pink sapphires, top-grade blue sapphires are far rarer. While these variants can be beautiful, the iconic Royal Blue sapphire remains the most coveted and scarce.
Tanzanite is highly rare, found only in a small region near Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. This limited source makes tanzanite rarer than blue sapphire, which is mined worldwide. As demand rises and supply remains constrained, tanzanite's value continues to increase.
Tanzanite's value is based on color intensity, size, and clarity. The finest tanzanites feature a vivid blue-violet hue, minimal inclusions, and strong pleochroism. Larger stones with these qualities can command high prices, rivaling those of blue sapphires due to tanzanite's growing reputation as a rare gem.
Conclusive Reflections
Blue sapphire and tanzanite are both exquisite gemstones, each with distinct characteristics. Blue sapphire, renowned for its deep history, symbolism, and ties to wisdom and royalty, is highly valued for its intense blue color and traditional appeal. Tanzanite, with its exclusive origins in Tanzania and striking blue-violet tones with trichroic qualities, offers a modern allure that is hard to match. Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on individual preferences. Blue sapphire provides a timeless, classic elegance, while tanzanite shines for its vibrant beauty and distinctiveness.
At Precious Earth, we offer a diverse range of ethically sourced and lab-certified gemstones, including pink sapphire, peridot, opals, and more, ensuring both beauty and authenticity in every piece.
