Does Tanzanite’s Color Fade with Sun Exposure?

Tanzanite is prized for its vivid blue violet hues and striking depth of color. This is why it is so popular and why we sell as much as we do. As with many colored gemstones, owners often ask whether sunlight can cause the stone to fade over time. This is a good question too. Most men and women wear their gemstone jewelry outdoors, so they want to make sure it is safe to do so.

But to answer the question, the short answer: tanzanite is color-stable.

Tanzanite's Color

Most tanzanite on the market has been heat-treated and not those natural blues, though we do have some naturals as well. The process of heat treating is a standard and accepted practice that enhances its blue and violet tones. This treatment also makes the color stable for everyday wear. Unlike dyed or coated stones, the color in tanzanite is inherent to the crystal structure and not applied to the surface.

Does the Sun Cause Tanzanite's Color to Fade?

Under normal daily exposure in the sun, such as wearing tanzanite jewelry outdoors or in natural light, noticeable fading is very, very unlikely. Indoor lighting and brief periods of sunlight do not pose a significant risk to your Tanzanite.

However, long-term, intense exposure, for example, leaving tanzanite jewelry in direct sunlight for months or years, may gradually reduce color saturation or brilliance. This effect, if it occurs, is subtle and slow rather than sudden. We have never met anyone that has left it out so long that this actually has happened.

Gemstones Where Fading Can Occur

Morganite

Morganite, a pink to peach variety of beryl, is notably sensitive to light and heat. Extended sunlight exposure can cause its delicate pink tones to fade, but again, this takes quite a bit of time in sun exposure. It also depends on treatment and locality for the material.

Kunzite

Kunzite is highly light-sensitive. Even moderate sunlight exposure can cause visible fading, which is why it is often recommended for evening or indoor wear only. It depends on the source and treatment though, if it will fade and how much.

Compared to these stones, tanzanite is relatively stable, making it suitable for regular wear with reasonable care.

In Our Own Experience

We put the Tanzanite in our ultrasonic which will be hotter than any condition a human would wear them in and there is no issue. As far as UV from the sun causing it to fade, We have never seen that is even an issue.

Irradiated quartz like the lemon color quartz and probably Prasiolite from Brazil will fade. We’ve seen that in our showcases in our jewelry store.

Certain treatments or material can be very uv sensitive, so if you’re unsure ask. That said, most gems shouldn’t be an issue and it should be the last thing to worry about when wearing their tanzanite outside. Proper storage and treating it with respect when wearing will be what keeps it looking the best longest. 

How to Best Care for Your Tanzanite

• Avoid storing tanzanite jewelry in direct sunlight, such as on a windowsill.

• Remove tanzanite rings or bracelets during activities involving prolonged heat.

• Store pieces in a jewelry box or pouch away from strong light sources.

• Normal wear, including outdoor exposure, is generally safe.