Tanzanite Engagement Rings: The Complete Guide

Tanzanite was discovered in the Merelani Hills, just outside of Mt. Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania in the 1960s. Tiffany & Co. named the stone tanzanite after its country of origin and brought it to market with a massive advertising push in 1968. In 2002, the American Gem Trade Association added tanzanite as a birthstone for December. It is also a traditional gemstone gift for 24th wedding anniversaries.

Celebrity jeweler Kyle Chan loves the idea of tanzanite or colored gemstone engagement rings because they're more in line with modern values—and modern economic realities. “The colored stone trend is good because you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg,” he adds. “You can put that money to better use, like buying a house or a car.”

Interested in one of these beautiful blue rings? Ahead, we're explaining everything you need to know about tanzanite engagement rings.

Pros and Cons of Tanzanite Rings

Tanzanite stones are known for their “fire" or sparkle. The highest quality tanzanites have a deep, even hue that can range from a royal blue tinged with violet to a brilliant violet. At smaller carat sizes, tanzanite is generally more affordable than the similarly hued sapphire (as well as diamonds and other precious gemstones), but it still offers the same rarity and reflective characteristics that make an engagement ring feel special. Tanzanite is also a softer stone on the Mohs scale (it ranks in between 6.5 and 7, whereas diamonds are a 10), so it’s important to protect tanzanite jewelry when traveling. Failing to do so could scratch or damage your stone. 

What to Look for in a Tanzanite Ring

• Is tanzanite more affordable compared to other gemstones? Tanzanite is typically less costly than precious gemstones, such as rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, but that can change when you’re dealing with tanzanites of larger carat sizes.
• What should I be aware of when shopping for tanzanite rings? As with all translucent gemstones, you want to be sure your tanzanite is free of inclusions within the stone, and that the corners are not chipped or fractured.
• What should I check concerning a tanzanite stone’s color? You’ll also want to check that the color is even throughout. For an easy test, Chan recommends turning the stone upside down and putting it against a white piece of paper.

How to Care for Your Tanzanite Ring

Cleaning your engagement ring with soap and water is a safe way to do it, although Chan says to avoid brushes. For storage, Chan recommends placing your ring in a plastic bag before putting it in a travel jewelry pouch so that diamonds and other stones do not scratch it.

Ready to start shopping for your tanzanite engagement ring? To help you find your dream ring, we've researched the most stunning tanzanite options on the market.

Read on for the best tanzanite engagement rings.