Tanzanite vs Sapphire

In the world of fine jewelry, blue gemstones have always held a timeless allure. But while Sapphire has long been royalty’s favorite, a newer, rarer contender—Tanzanite—is quickly stealing the spotlight. At Stoned, where we celebrate individuality through gemstones, we often get asked: "What’s the difference between Tanzanite and Sapphire—and which one is right for me?"

1. Origin: One Is Global, One Is One-of-a-Kind

Sapphire is found across the globe—from Sri Lanka to Australia to Montana. But Tanzanite? It’s found in only one place on Earth: the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. That makes Tanzanite 1,000 times rarer than Sapphire—and a natural collector’s gem.

2. Color: Classic Deep vs. Dynamic Hues

Sapphire’s deep, velvety blue is iconic. It symbolizes stability, wisdom, and royalty. It’s rich, consistent, and deeply saturated.

Tanzanite, on the other hand, is known for its color-changing magic—shifting from violet-blue to deep indigo under different lighting. It's softer, more expressive, and offers a unique personality to every piece.

3. Hardness & Durability

On the Mohs scale, Sapphire scores a solid 9/10, just under diamond. That means it’s ideal for everyday wear—especially in rings.

Tanzanite is a 6 to 7, so while it’s suitable for most jewelry, it demands a little more love and care—especially in rings and bracelets..

4. Price Point: Prestige vs. Discovery

While high-quality Sapphires can be expensive, especially untreated ones, Tanzanite often offers a larger, more vibrant stone at a lower price point. For those wanting an eye-catching statement without breaking the bank, Tanzanite brings unmatched value.

5. Symbolism & Energy

Sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and truth. It’s a regal gemstone often chosen for engagement rings and heirlooms.

Tanzanite is considered a stone of transformation and intuition. Many see it as a soul stone—deeply spiritual, meditative, and calming.

6. Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Sapphire if you:

• Love classic, timeless elegance
• Need a durable stone for everyday wear
• Want something traditional with royal roots

Choose Tanzanite if you:

• Want something rare, modern, and soulful
• Crave a unique color that changes with light
• Prefer meaningful, spiritual gemstones
  
  

At Stoned, We Offer Both—But Tanzanite Is Our Signature.

We’ve worked with Tanzanite for years, sourcing directly from ethical mines and crafting pieces that highlight its dynamic beauty. As one of the first brands to spotlight Tanzanite in India, it’s part of our DNA—and it’s what sets us apart.

Whether you're drawn to Sapphire’s strength or Tanzanite’s emotion, your gemstone should reflect your story.
And at Stoned, that story is always custom-crafted, never mass-made.

Ready to Make the Choice?

Explore our curated Tanzanite Collection and discover a shade of blue that’s yours alone.