How to tell if a Tanzanite is real or fake

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A tanzanite is an extraordinary and rare gemstone you can only find at foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Even though the gemstone is fairly new to the jewellery scene – with the first initial gemstone being discover in 1967 – the beauty has captivated many spectators around the world. In a short period of time, a tanzanite has become one of the most desired gemstone in the 21st century. With a fairly controlled and regulated mining structure in place, it leaves little room to for fakes, but if not purchased from a reputable jeweller imitations can make their way to the market. Find out exactly how to detect a real tanzanite from a fake:

STEP 1 – Buy from a reputable jeweller

Before you decide to purchase a rare tanzanite make sure you buy from a reputable jeweller you can trust. But, if you haven’t bought a tanzanite before how do you know which jewellery store you should visit? Here’s a guide to assist you in finding an established jeweller where you can purchase an exquisite tanzanite:
• Do they have a great reputation? Make sure you research the jeweller before you decide to buy a loose tanzanite or any creation from their store. With the help from Google you will be able to read previous reviews on your local jeweller. Tanzanite International has a long standing reputation of selling gem-quality tanzanite, sourced direct from the African mines.
• Are they ethical? Each tanzanite should be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity; a document stating the characteristics of the gemstone. A tanzanite should also be accompanied by an Ethical Compliance Certificate proofing the gemstone was mined in an ethical manner. Tanzanite International offers both these certificate, before you decide to make a purchase.
• Is it good quality tanzanite? Each unique creation or loose stone should be graded according Tanzanite International grading standards. Only the finest gem-quality tanzanite is used in our beautiful jewellery creations.

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STEP 2: Do a light test

The precious blue colours of a tanzanite are truly a characteristics that makes the gemstone unique. To display these one-of-a-kind qualities place a tanzanite under natural light or an incandescent light bulb to carefully view the exquisite gemstone. Being a true trichroic, a tanzanite will naturally display three colours. In natural light, a tanzanite is expected to showcase blue with a tinge of violet. It should also reflect the colours pink and red when moves around under an incandescent light.

STEP 3 - CAREFULLY VIEW THE INTENSITY OF THE COLOUR
A tanzanite will display the same intensity of colour when viewed from the side or from the top. A gemstone that looks similar to a tanzanite, such as an iolite will appear slightly yellowish or clear from different angles, compared to the top.
STEP 4 - VIEW IT WITH A 10X LOUPE
Ask a reputable jeweller if you could view a loose tanzanite or tanzanite creation under their 10X loupe. When viewed with the naked eye, a tanzanite will most likely appear to have no visible flaws, but with a 10X loupe the natural inclusions will be visible. If a tanzanite appears without any inclusions underneath the scope, chances the gemstone is fake. In most cases, a natural and real tanzanite is less likely pure of inclusions, unlike synthetic gemstones.
STEP 5 – SEARCH FOR REFLECTION OF LIGHT
If you’ve made a decision for a loose tanzanite or a tanzanite creation, look for the depth of sparkle or for a good refraction. A stone or colour glass simulating a tanzanite will appear flat compared to an actual thing.
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