Tanzanite is the dark blue variety of the zoisite family and has a hardness of 6.5-7. As the name indicates, Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, Africa and was originally introduced to the world by Tiffany and Co. Tanzanite is found exclusively in this tiny area of the world. It exhibits a rich violet-blue color for which the it is treasured; often it is heat-treated to achieve this color. Colors range from blue to purple and Tanzanites that are medium dark in tone, vivid in saturation, and slightly violet blue command premium prices. As Tanzanite can be less expensive than Sapphire, it often was purchased as an alternative. However, it has increased in popularity and now is valued more for its own beauty and brilliance than as a Sapphire substitute. Tanzanite is believed to help calm an overactive mind and helps the wearer feel more compassionate.