Tanzania is a country known for its rich deposits of gemstones, with a history dating back to the early 20th century. Gemstones have long played an important role in the economy of Tanzania, and the country is home to a variety of deposits that produce a range of different gemstones. In this post, we will take a look at some of the most well-known gemstones produced in Tanzania, as well as other lesser-known varieties.
Introduction to Gemstones in Tanzania
Tanzania has a long history of gemstone production, with the first documented discovery of gemstones in the country dating back to the early 1900s. Since then, Tanzania has become a major player in the gemstone industry, with a variety of deposits producing a range of different gemstones. Some of the most well-known gemstones produced in Tanzania include tanzanite, emeralds, and rubies.
Tanzania is home to several significant gemstone deposits, including the Merelani Hills in the Arusha region, which is known for producing some of the finest tanzanite in the world. Other significant deposits can be found in the Umba Valley, which produces high-quality rubies, and the Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, which is owned by Gemfields and is one of the largest emerald mines in the world.
The Most Well-Known Gemstones from Tanzania
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a blue variety of the mineral zoisite that is only found in one place on earth: the Merelani Hills in the Arusha region of Tanzania. It was discovered in the 1960s and quickly gained popularity as a gemstone, due to its unique blue color and durability. Tanzanite is known for its ability to change color under different lighting conditions, ranging from shades of blue to violet.
Tanzanite is considered a relatively recent addition to the gemstone world, and it has quickly become a popular choice for jewelry. It is typically found in a range of sizes, from small stones to larger, more impressive specimens. The finest quality tanzanite is known for its deep blue color, with few or no visible inclusions.
Emeralds
Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl and are known for their deep green color. They are one of the most valuable gemstones and have been prized for centuries for their beauty and rarity. The Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, which is owned by Gemfields, is one of the largest emerald mines in the world and produces a significant portion of the world’s supply of emeralds.
Emeralds from Tanzania are known for their high quality and are prized for their deep green color and clarity. They are typically found in a range of sizes, from small stones to larger specimens, and are often used in jewelry such as rings, earrings, and pendants.
Rubies
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum and are known for their deep red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium. They are one of the most valuable gemstones and have been prized for centuries for their beauty and rarity. The Umba Valley in Tanzania is known for producing high-quality rubies, with a range of different colors and qualities.
Rubies from Tanzania are known for their rich, deep red color and high clarity. They are typically found in a range of sizes, from small stones to larger specimens, and are often used in jewelry such as rings, earrings, and pendants.
Other Gemstones Produced in Tanzania
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, green, and blue. It is found in a variety of locations around the world, including Tanzania. Tourmaline from Tanzania is known for its high quality and is prized for its vibrant colors and durability.
Tourmaline is typically found in a range of sizes, from small stones to larger specimens, and is often used in jewelry such as rings, earrings, and pendants. It is also used as a decorative stone for objects such as figurines and decorative objects.
Garnet
Garnet is a gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, and purple. It is found in a variety of locations around the world, including Tanzania. Garnet from Tanzania is known for its high quality and is prized for its vibrant colors and durability.
Garnet is typically found in a range of sizes, from small stones to larger specimens, and is often used in jewelry such as rings, earrings, and pendants. It is also used as a decorative stone for objects such as figurines and decorative objects.
Tsavorite
Tsavorite is a rare variety of garnet that is found in a small area of Tanzania and Kenya. It is known for its bright green color and is highly prized as a gemstone. Tsavorite is a relatively recent discovery, having been discovered in the 1970s, and is still quite rare.
Tsavorite is typically found in small sizes and is used in jewelry such as rings, earrings, and pendants. It is also used as a decorative stone for objects such as figurines and decorative objects.
Conclusion
Tanzania is a significant producer of gemstones, with a variety of deposits producing a range of different gemstones. Some of the most well-known gemstones from Tanzania include tanzanite, emeralds, and rubies, while other gemstones produced in the country include tourmaline, garnet, and tsavorite. Gemstones have long played an important role in the economy of Tanzania and are likely to continue to do so in the future.
The mining and production of gemstones in Tanzania can have both positive and negative impacts on the economy and communities in the country. On the one hand, gemstone mining can provide employment and income for local communities, while on the other hand, it can also have negative environmental impacts and may lead to conflicts over land and resources. It is important for the gemstone industry in Tanzania to be sustainable and responsible in order to ensure its long-term success and positive impact on the country.
