How soft is tanzanite ? Am I going to break my ring ?

Understanding Tanzanite’s Hardness and Care

Reading online articles can make you feel apprehensive about using tanzanite in jewelry, but what are the actual facts? As a gemologist with years of experience working with tanzanite, I can provide some insights.

Tanzanite ranks between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a relatively soft gemstone—similar to emerald but less brittle. For comparison, diamond scores a 10 (the hardest), while sapphire and ruby score 9.

One notable characteristic of tanzanite is its “perfect cleavage,” meaning it can break along specific planes when struck at the right angle. This is akin to splitting a log of wood down the grain : while the wood is hard, it can be easily split by striking it along its natural lines of cleavage.

Due to its hardness and unique properties, tanzanite should be treated with care. However, this doesn’t mean it’s unsuitable for jewelry. With a few simple precautions, you can preserve and enjoy the beauty of tanzanite for many years. It is ideally suited for dress rings, earrings, and necklaces. Many people wear tanzanite engagement rings successfully for years, although some may find that the stone requires occasional repolishing—similar to any colored stone subjected to daily wear.

For those with an active lifestyle, consider jewelry types that are less exposed to bumps, such as pendants or earrings. If you choose an engagement ring, ensure the setting design protects the gemstone, reducing the likelihood of damage. Protective prongs on the tip of a pear-shaped tanzanite or a bezel setting—originally used in armor—are excellent examples of smart, durable designs.

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