Tanzanite is one of the newest gems on the market and was discovered only in 1967 in Tanzania. This lovely gem has been a worldwide success, and demand continues to exceed supply. Tanzanite is a variety of zoisite, which is a member of the epidote group. Colors include blue, purple and green. The most highly coveted color is a deep blue which shows a purple shimmer. Tanzanite is trichroic and exhibits pronounced pleochroism. The colors respective to the three directions are sapphire-blue, sage green, and purple. Orientation is an important consideration for cutters who need to consider both the yield and the resulting color.