Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, found in the Merelani Hills region of Tanzania in 1967. Initially marketed by Tiffany, it has grown tremendously in popularity due to its rich blue color. Considered one of the most attractive gemstones available, with a color comparable to rich sapphire.
Production and export is partially controlled by the Tanzanian government. There have been recent attempts to control the distribution and pricing, similar to the diamond industry. We are waiting for further developments, but expect that these attempts, coupled with the increased demand in China, will drive the prices for Tanzanite skyward.