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RAPAPORT… One of the most popular colors, blue is gaining new recognition in jewelry through the violet-hued blue of tanzanite. First discovered in Tanzania in 1967 in the foothills of the world-renowned Mount Kilimanjaro — and found only there — this vibrant gemstone is making its way into the spotlight, thanks to the efforts of the Tanzanite Foundation. Most recently, the Foundation showcased creations with this rare stone during a gala event held at the New York City Public Library to honor the winners of the Tanzanite Celebration of Life Jewelry Design Awards 2006 competition.
The theme for the competition plays off the Tanzanite Foundation tagline, “Be Born toTanzanite, ”which came about from an ancient Maasai tradition. The Maasai are the indigenous people who live in the areas of Tanzania where tanzanite is mined. According to Maasai heritage, blue is a sacred color that is associated with the birth of a child. New Maasai mothers wear blue-violet beads and fabrics to signify their status in the community. The color is also reputed to bring success to the child’s life. Drawing upon this tradition, the Tanzanite Foundation has created a new way to wear this special shade of blue: When a woman — in any culture — gives birth to a child, she is given the gift of tanzanite to celebrate the miracle of life.
The 21 winning pieces in the competition were selected by a panel of judges who chose the winners based on the beauty and originality of the designs, as well as the interpretation of the “Be Born to Tanzanite” theme. Said to be rarer than diamonds, the supply of tanzanite is expected to last for only one generation.
The Tanzanite Foundation is a nonprofit organization that works with the tanzanite industry to ensure a commitment to ethical business principles and environmentally responsible mining practices. The Foundation supports the partner firms — Colorjewels, Intercolor, K.L. Tambi & Co., Rare Multicolor Gems, STS Jewels and Tanzanite International — in developing an ethical and profitable industry.
Part of the mission is to develop the community surrounding the mining region by supporting schools, healthcare and other sustainable projects in order to better the lives of those who live in the region.
