Tanzanite Shopping in Arusha
Arusha, being the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, is the primary place to shop for Tanzanite, a rare and beautiful blue-violet gemstone found only in Tanzania, specifically in the Merelani Hills near Arusha.
What is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a unique zoisite mineral known for its striking pleochroism, meaning it exhibits different colors (blue, violet, burgundy) when viewed from different angles. Its color intensity varies from light lavender to a deep indigo or violet-blue. It’s significantly rarer than diamonds, with a limited global supply.
Where to Buy in Arusha:
- Reputable Jewelers/Stores: This is the safest option. Look for established jewelers with a good reputation. They will offer:
- Certificates of Authenticity: Essential for proving the stone’s origin and quality. Look for certifications from reputable gemological laboratories.
- Grading: Reputable dealers will explain the 4 Cs (Color, Clarity, Cut, Carat Weight) and the unique “Tanzanite Grading System” (e.g., AAA for top quality).
- Transparent Pricing: While bargaining is common in Tanzania, a fixed-price store or one with transparent pricing and clear explanations is a good sign.
- Guarantees/Return Policies: Ask about their policies.
- Gemstone Markets: While some local markets might have vendors selling Tanzanite, this carries a higher risk of purchasing imitation or lower-quality stones. If you’re not an expert, it’s best to stick to dedicated jewelers.
- High-End Safari Lodges: Some luxury lodges may have a small boutique selling Tanzanite. These are usually vetted, but prices might be higher.
Tips for Tanzanite Shopping:
- Do Your Research: Understand the basics of Tanzanite quality before you go.
- Look for Blue-Violet Hue: The most prized stones have a strong, saturated blue-violet color.
- Check for Clarity: Look for stones that are eye-clean (no visible inclusions).
- Consider the Cut: A good cut maximizes the stone’s brilliance and color play.
- Bargain (Politely): In many local stores, bargaining is expected. Do so respectfully.
- Pay by Credit Card: This offers some protection compared to cash.
- Beware of Scams: Be cautious of overly aggressive street vendors or unusually low prices. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Logistics from Uganda: You would fly from Entebbe (EBB) to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), and then transfer to Arusha, where you’ll find numerous jewelers.