Blue Gold And Black - A Comprehensive Exploration

Water is often referred to as “blue gold”, symbolizing its immense value and scarcity in certain regions of the world. However, there is another type of “blue gold” that is rarely discussed but holds tremendous significance for various industries. This elusive marvel is none other than a beautiful gemstone called tanzanite, often referred to as “blue gold” in the jewelry market.

Found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, tanzanite gained popularity due to its mesmerizing vivid blue and purple hues. It was initially introduced to the world in 1967 by a British geologist, and since then, its demand has skyrocketed. This rare gemstone's allure lies not only in its captivating color but also in its limited supply. Experts believe that the major mines are expected to exhaust their resources within the next two decades.

The Value of Tanzanite

Tanzanite's unique color variations ranging from deep royal blue to velvety violet-blue make it a sought-after gem by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts worldwide. The gem's color is so exquisite that some even suggest it rivals the highly cherished sapphire. Tanzanite's mesmerizing hues are a consequence of pleochroism, a phenomenon that causes the gem to display different colors when viewed from distinct angles.

Blue & Gold and Black: Racial Integration of the U.S. Naval Academy (Williams-Ford Texas A&M University Military History Series Book 11)

by Franz Joseph Hausmann(Kindle Edition)

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The scarcity factor is also taking its toll on the value of this precious gem. As the mines draw closer to depletion, the price of tanzanite has been rising rapidly. It has become a wise investment option, with prices almost tripling in the past decade alone.

The Jewelry Industry's Obsession

The allure of tanzanite has not been limited to collectors; numerous renowned jewelry brands and designers have fallen under its spell too. The gemstone's scarcity and unique color make it an ideal choice for creating elegant and exclusive pieces of jewelry. Tanzanite has been prominently featured in high-profile events, red carpets, and celebrity engagements, further increasing its desirability.

Leading jewelry houses have recognized the immense potential of tanzanite and begun incorporating the gemstone in their designs. Its striking blue color effortlessly adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any piece, making it a staple in standout jewelry collections.

Healing Properties and Metaphysical Beliefs

Besides its visual appeal, tanzanite is believed to possess certain healing properties and metaphysical qualities. Some claim that wearing tanzanite can aid in spiritual growth, enhance intuition, and promote a sense of calmness and tranquility. It is also said to encourage creativity and promote self-discovery.

The gemstone's reputation as a tranquilizing crystal has made it increasingly popular in the field of alternative therapies and is often associated with chakra healing practices. Many believe that it can help balance energy centers and foster clarity of thought.

Preserving and Sustaining Tanzanite

Recognizing the significance and rarity of tanzanite, measures have been implemented to protect and sustain this precious gem. The Tanzanite Foundation, in collaboration with the Tanzanian government, has established guidelines to ensure responsible mining practices, ethical supply chains, and the conservation of tanzanite's natural habitat.

By imposing strict regulations and engaging local communities, the aim is to strike a balance between the growing demand for tanzanite and the need to protect the environment. It is hoped that these efforts will preserve the gemstone's legacy for future generations to appreciate.

In a world where water is often considered the “blue gold”, tanzanite emerges as a captivating and rare gemstone worthy of the title as well. From its exquisite color to its metaphysical properties, this blue treasure has captured the attention of the jewelry industry and collectors alike. However, with limited resources and increasing demand, it is essential to handle tanzanite with care and ensure responsible sourcing practices to protect its long-term sustainability.

Blue & Gold and Black: Racial Integration of the U.S. Naval Academy (Williams-Ford Texas A&M University Military History Series Book 11)

by Franz Joseph Hausmann(Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
File size	:	6212 KB
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During the twentieth century, the U.S. Naval Academy evolved from a racist institution to one that ranked equal opportunity among its fundamental tenets. This transformation was not without its social cost, however, and black midshipmen bore the brunt of it.

Blue & Gold and Black is the history of integration of African Americans into the Naval Academy. The book examines how civil rights advocates’ demands for equal opportunity shaped the Naval Academy’s evolution. Author Robert J. Schneller Jr. analyzes how changes in the Academy’s policies and culture affected the lives of black midshipmen, as well as how black midshipmen effected change in the Academy’s policies and culture.

Most institutional history is written from the top down, while most social history is written from the bottom up. Based on the documentary record as well as on the memories of hundreds of midshipmen and naval officers, Blue & Gold and Black includes both perspectives. By examining both the institution and the individual, a much more accurate picture emerges of how racial integration occurred at the Naval Academy.

Schneller takes a biographical approach to social history. Through written correspondence, responses to questionnaires, memoirs, and oral histories, African American midshipmen recount their experiences in their own words. Rather than setting adrift their humanity and individuality in oceans of statistics, Schneller uses their first-hand recollections to provide insights into the Academy’s culture that cannot be gained from official records. Covering the Jim Crow era, the civil rights movement, and the empowerment of African Americans from the late 1960s through the end of the twentieth century, Blue & Gold and Black traces the transformation of an institution that produces men and women who lead not only the Navy, but also the nation.