1st - Gold 
January 
February 
March 
April 
May 
June 
July 
August 
September 
October 
November 
December 
Capricorn - Garnet 
Aquarius - Amethyst 
Pisces - Aquamarine 
Aries - Diamond 
Taurus - Emerald 
Gemini - Pearl 
Cancer - Ruby 
Leo - Peridot 
Virgo - Blue Sapphire 
Libra - Opal 
Scorpio - Topaz 
Sagittarius - Tanzanite 
Tanzanite vs Spinel
Which Blue Gemstone should you choose?
When selecting a blue gemstone, Tanzanite and Spinel are two highly desirable options. Both exhibit striking blue hues, but they differ in composition, hardness, value, and care requirements.
This complete Tanzanite vs Spinel comparison guide will help you understand the differences in colour, clarity, durability, and investment potential, so you can choose the ideal gemstone for elegant jewellery.
Tanzanite vs Spinel: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tanzanite | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Zoisite (Calcium Aluminium Silicate) | Spinel |
| Hardness | 6.5 – 7 – Softer, careful wear | 8 – Very durable |
| Value | High; prized for rare blue tones | Moderate to high; affordable luxury |
| Best For | Statement jewellery, engagement rings, elegant pieces | Fashion rings, daily wear, versatile jewellery |
| Professional Guides | Tanzanite Buyer’s Guide | Spinel Buyer’s Guide |
Tanzanite Features, Colour & Value Explained
Tanzanite is a rare blue gemstone discovered only in Tanzania. Its blue-violet colour ranges from deep indigo to bright violet-blue, and the most saturated stones are highly prized.
Origins & Significance:
Tanzanite is mined exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Its rarity and exceptional colour make it one of the most valuable blue gemstones.
Price Guide (per carat):
R5,000 – R120,000 depending on size, colour, and clarity.
Spinel Features, Colour & Durability Explained
Spinel comes in a range of colours, including beautiful blue shades. While naturally less expensive than tanzanite, blue spinels are durable and brilliant, making them ideal for jewellery worn daily.
Origins & Significance:
Blue spinels are found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Historically, spinel has been a crown jewel favourite for its rich colour and durability.
Price Guide (per carat):
R3,000 – R60,000 depending on size and quality.
Tanzanite vs Spinel: Detailed Technical Comparison
| Feature | Tanzanite | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Calcium aluminium silicate (Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH)) | Magnesium aluminium oxide (MgAl2O4) |
| Colour | Violet-blue to deep indigo; pleochroic (colour shifts in different angles) | Bright blue to bluish-violet |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 – 7 – Softer, requires protection | 8 – Very durable for daily wear |
| Refractive Index | 1.69 – 1.70 | 1.718 – 1.736 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.35 | 3.58 – 3.61 |
| Clarity & Inclusions | Typically eye-clean; minor inclusions acceptable | Usually eye-clean; minimal inclusions |
| Origin | Merelani Hills, Tanzania | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam |
| Treatment | Heat treatment common to enhance blue colour | Mostly untreated; occasional heat treatment |
| Best Use | Elegant rings, pendants, statement jewellery | Daily wear, fashion rings, versatile jewellery |
Tanzanite vs Spinel: Colour, Hardness & Care Tips
Colour Comparison:
- Tanzanite: Deep violet-blue; pleochroic (appears slightly different from angles).
- Spinel: Bright blue, often more uniform; durable and sparkly.
Hardness & Durability:
- Tanzanite: Mohs 6.5–7 – suitable for jewellery with protective settings.
- Spinel: Mohs 8 – durable enough for rings, earrings, and daily wear.
Care Tips:
- Tanzanite: Avoid knocks, high heat, and harsh chemicals; clean gently.
- Spinel: Hard enough for daily wear; clean with mild soap and water.
Tanzanite vs Spinel: How to Tell Them Apart
💡 Tip: Look for hardness, pleochroism, and clarity. Tanzanite shows subtle colour shift; spinel is typically uniform and eye-clean. Professional verification is recommended for high-value stones.
Tanzanite Summary
- Hardness: Mohs 6.5–7
- Colour: Blue-violet, pleochroic
- Refractive Index: 1.69 – 1.70
- Inclusions: Minor, eye-clean
- Care: Avoid knocks; use protective settings
Spinel Summary
- Hardness: Mohs 8
- Colour: Bright blue to bluish-violet
- Refractive Index: 1.718 – 1.736
- Inclusions: Minimal; usually eye-clean
- Care: Durable; suitable for daily wear
Buying Tips
- Request a certified gem report for tanzanite.
- For blue spinel, evaluate colour, size, and origin.
- Confirm treatment disclosures: tanzanite is often heat-treated; spinel usually untreated.
- Use secure jewellery settings for tanzanite; spinel can also benefit from protective settings.
- Browse our Tanzanite Collection and Spinel Collection.
Which Blue Gemstone Should You Choose?
Both are versatile, stunning blue gemstones. Understanding differences in hardness, value, and care ensures the right purchase.
Tanzanite: Ideal for elegant, statement pieces and rarer, premium jewellery.
Spinel: Beautiful, durable, and more affordable alternative for daily or fashion wear.
Tanzanite vs Spinel FAQ’s
Can spinel be mistaken for tanzanite?
Yes, especially blue spinel; verification by a gemologist is recommended.
Are tanzanites more expensive than spinels?
Generally yes, due to rarity and vivid blue colour.
Can tanzanite be worn daily?
Only with care; use protective settings.
Do spinels require special care?
No, they are hard and durable enough for daily wear.
Are tanzanites treated?
Most are heat-treated to enhance colour.
Which gemstone is better for elegant jewellery?
Tanzanite, for rarity, colour, and statement pieces; spinel is excellent for durable fashion jewellery.
COMPARE GEMSTONES WITH CONFIDENCE
Gemstone Comparison Guides
Choosing between two beautiful gemstones can be challenging. Our professional Gemstone Comparison Guides help you clearly understand the differences between popular gemstones so you can make a confident and informed choice.
Each comparison explores the key factors that influence gemstone quality and value, including colour, clarity, durability, rarity and typical treatments. You will also learn how similar-looking gemstones differ in appearance, composition, hardness and more.
HERE IS ALL THE PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION YOU NEED
Gemstone Buyer's Guides
Buying a gemstone should be exciting — but understanding quality, rarity and value is essential before making the right choice. Our professional Gemstone Buyer’s Guides help you understand how colour, clarity, cut and treatments influence the beauty and value of different gemstones.
Each guide explains the key quality factors used by gemologists, including gemstone composition, colour grading, natural inclusions, treatments and origin. You will also learn how these factors affect rarity, durability and market value.
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