Source for Tanzanite?

[periwinklegirl]

Hello CSer's,
I'm in the lovely position of choosing some tanzanite jewelry for my birthday (since it's now my birthstone!). Except, where do I look?

Trusted online vendors? And in this case, probably for already made pieces.

I suspect the intended budget for this gift is around $500. At this point I'm thinking earrings. But I'm open.

Grateful, as always, for any suggestions!

Thanks!

 

[Tanzigrrl]

I always go see Adam at Paraiba International in NYC for all of my tanzanite needs. Online: www.paraibainternational.com

 

[chrono]

I would check out the recommended Etsy vendors for ready made items.

A few decent pairs towards the end of the page.
http://www.mineralminers.com/html/tanjlry.stm

 

[periwinklegirl]

Thank you both so much!

I'm already eagerly browsing the sites.

 

[chrono]

Did you find anything suitable?

 

[periwinklegirl]

OK - so I bought one. It's not big, 1.4 cts, but it's a good colour and I couldn't argue with the price.
Plus I trust the vendor - I've dealt with them before, so I know I can return it.

I know tanzanite is relatively soft, so I'm thinking more of a special occasion ring.

Thoughts?

 

[periwinklegirl]

I also have my eye on these. From mineral miners. Thanks for the link Chrono!
I'll be interested to see how both of these compare to the vendor pics once I get them.

 

[chrono]

Do let us know. The single stone has a nice blue but there's a dark bow tie present in the picture. Actually, it looks almost like a cross, with 2 thicker ends and 2 thinner ends. Not sure how obvious it will be in person. The MM earrings are more purple than blue but they look bright and sparkly.

 

[LD]

Do let us know. The single stone has a nice blue but there's a dark bow tie present in the picture. Actually, it looks almost like a cross, with 2 thicker ends and 2 thinner ends. Not sure how obvious it will be in person. The MM earrings are more purple than blue but they look bright and sparkly.

+1 about the single stone BUT with reference to the earrings they look like low quality Tanzanites so I, personally, would give them a wide berth.

Try Multicolour and also Lapigems - both have some great Tanzanites. I've bought from both and never been unhappy. In fact, I bought an enormous heart shaped Tanzanite from Multicolour that they recut for me and did a wonderful job.

 

[periwinklegirl]

More vendor pics.

 

[periwinklegirl]

Do let us know. The single stone has a nice blue but there's a dark bow tie present in the picture. Actually, it looks almost like a cross, with 2 thicker ends and 2 thinner ends. Not sure how obvious it will be in person. The MM earrings are more purple than blue but they look bright and sparkly.

+1 about the single stone BUT with reference to the earrings they look like low quality Tanzanites so I, personally, would give them a wide berth.

Thanks Chrono and LD! I've just been clarifying the mineral miner's return policy. I'd be happy enough if they're purple, but not if they're too pale.

I'll keep you all posted!

Thanks so much everyone!