Welcome to the most concise yet thorough guide to understanding tanzanite on the internet. Within the next half hour, you can learn enough about this fascinating relative newcomer to the world of gemstones to purchase them with confidence and peace of mind. Our mission is to give you unbiased facts so that you can make informed decisions, or just expand your horizons.

Whatever your goal, you will find this site to be informative, fun and, most of all, easy to use.

Did you know that tanzanite was originally introduced to market as a sapphire substitute? It's true. Tanzanite wasn't discovered until the 1960's! And, what began as a second string replacement has blossomed into one of the greatest success stories in gemstone history.

Even though tanzanite still sells for far less than sapphires and other gemstones, it is quickly becoming respected and prized for its unusual clarity and brilliance.

Unlike diamonds, rubies and emeralds, for which there are mines the world over, tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, Africa.

Tanzanite is actually classified in the gem world as a three-colored gem. So when you see deep blue, flashes of purple and shades of violet in one stone, you are observing qualities that any sapphire would be thrilled to claim, but they are exclusively tanzanite's.

See how easy this is? Go to our center page and click on any subject you like. From cut and style to color and enhancing treatments, you'll find each chapter as simple and complete as this one. We've even included a handy shopping checklist that you can print out and take with you to the jewelers. On it, you'll find everything you need to keep in mind when examining these beautiful, elegant and brilliant gemstone.

If you have additional questions, or want more detailed information on any subject on this site, feel free to email our highly trained, professional staff at info@thediamond.com and we'd be happy to assist you in any way we can.

Now, have fun, and fall in love with this beautiful stone from the heart of Africa.