3.22 Carat Natural Tanzanite (Zoisite) Loose Gemstone

This specimen is a natural zoisite, commercially known as Tanzanite, weighing 3.22 carats. The gemstone is expertly cut into a rectangular cushion shape with a mixed cutting style, measuring 9.96 x 7.82 x 4.85 mm. It displays a vibrant, saturated blue-violet hue characteristic of high-quality Tanzanite, exhibiting strong pleochroism which is visible as the stone shifts under light. The crown features a well-defined table and symmetrical facets, though the internal clarity reveals significant natural inclusions. These inclusions include visible veining, fluid-filled feathers, and internal fractures that disrupt the light path, creating a somewhat 'sleepy' or fragmented internal appearance rather than eye-clean transparency. There is a notable internal reaching inclusion or surface-breaking fissure near the center, which may affect durability if set. The girdle thickness appears consistent, held here by laboratory tweezers for inspection. The color saturation is deep, suggesting professional heat treatment which is standard for the industry to achieve this specific blue-violet balance, though it remains listed as unspecified. The overall craftsmanship of the cut is good, aimed at maximizing weight retention while maintaining a classic cushion silhouette.

I have virtually examined this 3.22-carat rectangular cushion-cut Tanzanite. The gemstone exhibits a desirable 'AAA' grade saturation with the classic blue-violet pleochroism sought after in the trade. While the 3.22-carat weight is substantial, the value is significantly tempered by internal clarity characteristics. My examination reveals a 'sleepy' translucency caused by dense veining, fluid-filled feathers, and a prominent surface-reaching fissure. These inclusions not only inhibit brilliance and light return but also present significant durability risks during the setting process. Market demand for Tanzanite remains high, but premiums are reserved for 'eye-clean' stones with exceptional transparency. This specimen falls into a lower commercial tier due to the extent of the natural fractures. Comparables for stones of this size with similar inclusions trade in the range of $140 to $200 per carat. This valuation assumes standard professional heat treatment, which is nearly universal for Tanzanite. However, I must note the limitations of this appraisal: visual inspection via digital images cannot confirm the absence of synthetic substitutes or filler treatments like cobalt coating or glass filling. A definitive authentication requires a physical laboratory examination including refractive index (RI) testing and microscopic analysis of inclusion profiles. For a full insurance-grade appraisal, a certificate from a recognized authority like GIA or AIGS is necessary to confirm the stone's origin and treatment status.