What To Know
- If the stone leaves a scratch on the glass, it is likely genuine tanzanite.
- To test for fluorescence, place the tanzanite stone under a UV lamp in a darkened room.
- By mastering the art of testing tanzanite stones, you gain the confidence to make informed purchasing decisions, ensuring you invest in genuine gemstones that will retain their value and beauty for generations to come.
Tanzanite, a captivating gemstone renowned for its mesmerizing blue-violet hues, holds a prominent place in the realm of fine jewelry. Its unique beauty and rarity have captivated collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, making it a highly sought-after gem. However, with its increasing popularity comes the unfortunate reality of imitations and fraudulent practices. To ensure you are investing in genuine tanzanite, mastering the art of testing its authenticity is crucial. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to confidently assess the authenticity of tanzanite stones, empowering you to make informed purchasing decisions.
1. Visual Inspection: Unveiling the Gem’s True Colors
Begin your tanzanite testing journey with a thorough visual inspection. Genuine tanzanite typically exhibits a captivating blue-violet hue, often described as a blend of sapphire and amethyst. Hold the stone under natural light and observe its color variations. Tanzanite is pleochroic, meaning it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. A genuine tanzanite should showcase a range of hues, transitioning from blue to violet and even burgundy.
2. Clarity and Inclusions: Embracing the Natural Imperfections
Tanzanite, like all natural gemstones, often contains inclusions, tiny imperfections that add character and authenticity to the stone. These inclusions can vary in size, shape, and color, serving as unique identifiers of a genuine tanzanite. While some inclusions may be visible to the naked eye, others may require magnification for closer examination. The presence of inclusions is a positive indicator of authenticity, as synthetic tanzanite is typically free of these natural blemishes.
3. Hardness Test: Unveiling the Stone’s Strength
Tanzanite possesses a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, making it relatively hard and resistant to scratching. To perform a simple hardness test, gently rub the tanzanite stone against a piece of glass. If the stone leaves a scratch on the glass, it is likely genuine tanzanite. Conversely, if the glass scratches the stone, it is most likely a softer imitation.
4. Refractive Index: Unraveling the Gem’s Light-Bending Properties
The refractive index (RI) of a gemstone is a measure of how much it bends light. Genuine tanzanite possesses a distinctive RI of 1.691 to 1.700. To measure the RI, specialized equipment like a refractometer is required. A higher RI value indicates a denser gemstone, which is a characteristic of genuine tanzanite.
5. Specific Gravity: Delving into the Stone’s Density
Specific gravity (SG) is another important factor in determining the authenticity of tanzanite. Genuine tanzanite typically has an SG ranging from 3.35 to 3.45. To measure SG, a precise scale and a container of water are required. Suspend the tanzanite stone in water using a thread and measure its weight in grams. Divide the weight in air by the weight in water to obtain the SG. A value within the specified range is indicative of genuine tanzanite.
6. Fluorescence: Illuminating the Stone’s Reaction to Light
Tanzanite exhibits strong fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) light, emitting a vibrant blue-violet glow. To test for fluorescence, place the tanzanite stone under a UV lamp in a darkened room. Observe the stone’s reaction to the UV light. A genuine tanzanite should display a pronounced fluorescence, while imitations may exhibit a weak or nonexistent reaction.
7. Professional Gemological Evaluation: Seeking Expert Insight
While the aforementioned tests can provide valuable insights, seeking the expertise of a qualified gemologist is highly recommended for definitive tanzanite authentication. Gemologists possess the necessary knowledge, experience, and equipment to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the stone, including advanced testing techniques like X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. Their professional assessment provides the utmost assurance of the tanzanite’s authenticity.
The Bottom Line: Empowering Informed Tanzanite Investments
By mastering the art of testing tanzanite stones, you gain the confidence to make informed purchasing decisions, ensuring you invest in genuine gemstones that will retain their value and beauty for generations to come. Remember, the authenticity of a tanzanite stone is paramount, as it directly influences its worth and integrity. Embrace the journey of gemstone exploration, and let your passion for tanzanite guide you towards owning a piece of true beauty and authenticity.
FAQ: Unveiling the Mysteries of Tanzanite Authenticity
1. Can I test tanzanite authenticity at home?
While some basic tests like visual inspection, hardness test, and fluorescence can be performed at home, definitive authentication requires specialized equipment and expertise. Consulting a qualified gemologist is highly recommended for accurate and reliable results.
2. What are the most common tanzanite imitations?
Synthetic tanzanite, created in laboratories, is the most common imitation. Other imitations include blue sapphire, iolite, and color-treated amethyst.
3. How can I avoid purchasing fake tanzanite?
Purchase tanzanite from reputable jewelers or gemologists who provide certificates of authenticity. Be wary of stones that are significantly cheaper than market value, as they may be imitations.
4. What is the value of tanzanite?
The value of tanzanite varies depending on its size, color, clarity, and overall quality. Larger, well-cut stones with vibrant blue-violet hues command higher prices.
5. How can I care for my tanzanite jewelry?
Clean your tanzanite jewelry regularly using mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and excessive heat, as they can damage the stone.
