Adara – Tanzanites & Diamonds

Diamond is made almost entirely of carbon (about 99.95 percent), which makes it the only gem made of a single element. Trace elements can affect its colour, so diamonds also occur in colours such as yellow and blue.

Birthstone

April

Hardness

10 (Mohs)

Everyday wear

Diamond is the hardest gem and resists scratching, but a sharp knock in the wrong direction can still chip or split it, which is why pointed corners are often protected by prongs.

Care

At home, clean with a soft lint-free cloth, a jewellery cleaning solution or a mild household detergent. Avoid abrasive powdered cleaners, and leave ultrasonic and steam cleaning to a jeweller, who will first check that the stones are secure.

Meaning and tradition

The name comes from the Greek 'adamas', meaning invincible or unbreakable, and diamond is traditionally associated with clarity, resilience and lasting love. Some people believe it brings strength, beauty and happiness, and it is the traditional gift for 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries.

Tanzanite is the violet-blue to blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It is mined commercially in only one place, the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, which gives the gem its name.

Birthstone

December

Hardness

6–7 (Mohs)

Everyday wear

Tanzanite has fair to poor toughness and can split if knocked, so it is best in earrings and pendants or worn with care in rings.

Care

Clean with warm, soapy water only; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are never recommended. Avoid sudden temperature changes and high heat.

Meaning and tradition

Tanzanite was only discovered in 1967 and is the gem for 24th wedding anniversaries. In modern crystal lore, many people associate it with intuition, spiritual awareness and a calm, soothing presence.