BUYER'S GUIDE
Tanzanite colour and cut: comparing photographs
The most vivid photograph is not enough to choose a tanzanite. Viewing direction and lighting affect its appearance, while cutting determines its face-up display. When selecting remotely, create consistent conditions for comparing several actual stones.
Blue and violet can belong to the same stone
GIA explains tanzanite's pleochroism: it can show different colours in different crystal directions. Cutting orientation therefore affects its face-up appearance. Differences between photographs from several angles are not automatically an error, but the shooting conditions should be clear.
Request a face-up image, a side view and a short video with slow rotation. Ask for the same background and described lighting for all candidates. Avoid choosing solely from one strongly lit close-up that does not show the complete stone.
Cut shape is only part of cut assessment
Oval, cushion and triangular cuts describe shape. Two stones of the same shape can return light differently. In a video, consider whether the appearance feels lively across the face or whether large dark or see-through-looking areas distract you. Ask a knowledgeable professional to explain their cause rather than grading the stone from a photograph alone.
For planned jewellery, request length, width and depth in millimetres. Carat weight does not establish face-up size or suitability for an existing setting. Discuss actual dimensions and setting suitability with your jeweller before buying.
What an AAA label means
GIA states that tanzanite has no standard quality-grading scale; labels such as AAA may be a seller's own descriptions. Do not automatically equate one supplier's AAA with another's. Ask for the criteria behind the label and details of the individual stone.
Build a shortlist with consistent information
For each stone, record weight, dimensions, preferred hue, treatment information and total price. Add photographs and the document issuer. AURELIS offers tanzanite at a fixed USD rate per carat; confirm the current rate and final amount for the selected piece. An editorial illustration is not a photograph of the stone being offered.
| Detail | Evidence to request |
|---|---|
| Colour | Consistent lighting, background and several angles |
| Cut | Face-up image, side view and video |
| Size | Carat weight and three dimensions in mm |
| Quality label | An explanation of criteria, rather than AAA alone |
Before sending an enquiry
- Am I comparing actual stones under consistent conditions?
- Do I have dimensions and a video?
- Do I understand the quality descriptions and treatment information?
Sources and further reading
This guide helps compare products and order terms. It does not promise future returns or buyback.