
How to Spot Fake Tanzanite: Secret Tips from Experts
Tanzanite stone is a rare and beautiful gemstone that is only found in Tanzania, Africa. It is famous for its deep blue and purple colors. People love Tanzanite because it is special and not found anywhere else in the world.
Because Tanzanite is valuable, some people try to sell fake stones. Many people cannot tell the difference between real and fake Tanzanite. Fake stones may look shiny and colorful, but they do not have the same beauty, energy, or value as real Tanzanite.
In this guide, you will learn the secrets to spotting fake Tanzanite. You will understand why fake stones exist, what tricks sellers use, and how to check if your Tanzanite is real.
Why Do Fake Tanzanite Stones Exist?
Many people want to own Tanzanite because it is rare, beautiful, and special. But real Tanzanite is expensive. Some sellers want to make quick money, so they create fake stones that look like real Tanzanite.
They do this because:
- Real Tanzanite is hard to find
- Making fake Tanzanite is cheap
- Many buyers do not know how to check real vs. fake stones
- Some fake Tanzanite stones look very real
If people do not check carefully, they might buy a fake stone without knowing.
Different Types of Fake Tanzanite
There are many ways people make fake Tanzanite. Some fake stones are made in factories, while others are made by coloring cheaper gemstones. Here are some common types of fake Tanzanite:
1. Glass Stones
Some fake Tanzanite stones are made from colored glass. These stones are very cheap and break easily. They may look shiny, but they do not have the natural beauty of real Tanzanite.
2. Plastic Stones
Some sellers use plastic stones that are colored blue or purple. These stones feel very light and do not shine like real gemstones.
3. Synthetic Tanzanite
Some companies make lab-created Tanzanite. These stones look real but are not from nature. They do not have the same energy or value as real Tanzanite.
4. Dyed Gemstones
Some people take cheaper blue or purple gemstones and color them to look like Tanzanite. They may use amethyst, blue spinel, or cubic zirconia. These stones may look similar but are not true Tanzanite.
Secret Ways to Tell If Tanzanite Is Real or Fake
You do not need to be an expert to spot fake Tanzanite. Here are simple and easy ways to check if a Tanzanite stone is real:
1. Look at the Color Carefully
Real Tanzanite has a unique blue and purple color. When you move it in different lights, the color may look blue, purple, or even a little red.
Fake Tanzanite usually has only one color. If the stone looks exactly the same in every light, it might be fake.
2. Test the Shine
Real Tanzanite has a bright, sparkly shine. When you turn it in the light, you will see different shades of blue and violet.
Fake Tanzanite does not shine as much. It may look dull or have a too-perfect shine that looks unnatural.
3. Feel the Weight
Real Tanzanite is heavier than glass and plastic. If the stone feels too light, it is likely fake.
4. Check for Scratches
Tanzanite is not the hardest gemstone, but it is harder than glass and plastic. If your stone has many scratches, it could be fake.
5. Do the Breath Test
Breathe on the stone like you would on a mirror. Real Tanzanite will clear up quickly. Fake Tanzanite stays foggy for longer.
6. Try Different Lights
Look at the stone under sunlight, room light, and a flashlight. Real Tanzanite will show different colors under different lights. If the stone looks the same in every light, it may be fake.
7. Check the Price
Real Tanzanite is rare and expensive. If someone is selling it for a very low price, it is probably fake. Always be careful with cheap deals.
Where Do People Sell Fake Tanzanite?
Fake Tanzanite is sold in many places, such as:
- Street markets (where sellers do not give certificates)
- Online stores with no reviews
- Shops that do not let you check the stone
- Jewelry stores that do not provide a gemstone report
Always buy Tanzanite from trusted jewelry stores or certified gemstone dealers.
Real vs. Fake Tanzanite: A Quick Comparison
Feature | Real Tanzanite | Fake Tanzanite |
---|---|---|
Color | Changes between blue, purple, and red | Looks the same in all lights |
Shine | Bright and natural sparkle | Too dull or too shiny |
Weight | Heavy | Light |
Scratches | Fewer scratches | Many scratches |
Breath Test | Clears up quickly | Stays foggy |
Price | Expensive | Very cheap |
Why It’s Important to Check Your Tanzanite
Buying real Tanzanite is important because:
- It has real value (Fake Tanzanite is worthless)
- It is a rare gemstone (Fake stones are common)
- It is stronger and lasts longer
- It has a unique energy (Some people believe Tanzanite brings good luck and wisdom)
If you check your Tanzanite carefully, you will never get tricked into buying a fake stone.
Can You Still Buy Fake Tanzanite for Fun?
Some fake Tanzanite stones look very pretty. If you just want a blue or purple stone for decoration or jewelry, you can buy a cheap one. But if you want real Tanzanite, always check it first.
Final Thoughts
Tanzanite is one of the most beautiful gemstones in the world. But many fake stones are sold every day.
To make sure you buy real Tanzanite:
- Always check the color, shine, and weight
- Look at the stone in different lights
- Do the breath test and scratch test
- Be careful with very cheap prices
- Buy from trusted sellers with gem certificates
Now that you know the secrets of spotting fake Tanzanite, you can feel confident and smart when shopping for this amazing gemstone!