An African Story Written in Violet-Blue: Discover Tanzanite at The Diamond Works Institute

No visit to Cape Town is complete without a visit to The Diamond Works Institute, the only polishing studio in the Southern Hemisphere – and home to one of the most beautiful collections of tanzanite in the world.

A thousand times rarer than diamonds, this uniquely African gem captivates people with its stunning blue and violet hues.

A geological marvel
The formation of tanzanite tells a story as fascinating as the gem itself. Born from intense heat and pressure beneath Africa’s surface, this rare stone developed under extraordinary circumstances when tectonic movements and volcanic activity in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro created perfect conditions for tanzanite’s creation, making it truly unique to this corner of East Africa.

The one-generation gem
Found only in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite stone is a geological wonder. Its distinctive colour (often described as ‘velvet blue’), inherent beauty, fascinating origin story, and natural scarcity, makes it a sought-after gemstone for discerning collectors and jewellery lovers who understand they’re acquiring something truly special.

Adding to its allure, tanzanite’s unique colour shifts under different lighting conditions, displaying a mesmerizing spectrum ranging from deep sapphire blue to vibrant violet. This phenomenon, known as pleochroism, is one of the reasons it’s cherished not only for its rarity but also for its dynamic beauty.

From mine to masterpiece
Each carefully selected gem in our collection is sourced from the only known deposit in the world – a narrow strip of land in Tanzania’s Merelani Hills. The Diamond Works Institute’s dedication to sustainability means that every tanzanite in our showroom is not only beautiful but also ethically and responsibly acquired from the best in the business.

For those looking for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery, our expert designers are ready to turn your vision into reality. Collaborate with our master craftsmen to create your very own tanzanite masterpiece – a piece of Africa shaped by your own story and infused with your own unique style and creativity. Whether you’re looking for tanzanite earrings, a tanzanite ring, a tanzanite necklace or a statement tanzanite engagement ring, it’s the perfect way to capture a special moment in your life.

Our master goldsmiths design and craft tanzanite earrings, pendants and rings, each delicately hand-worked to showcase the beauty and essence of tanzanite. Witness the only tanzanite polishing demonstration open to the public in the Southern Hemisphere.

Book your own African Tanzanite Experience: www.thediamondworks.co.za