Overview

Tourmaline is one of the most diverse gemstones in terms of color, making it a favorite among collectors and jewelers alike. This unique mineral group can be found in nearly every color of the rainbow, from rich pinks and vibrant greens to deep blues and even colorless varieties. The name "tourmaline" is derived from the Sinhalese word "tura mali," meaning "stone with mixed colors," reflecting its wide range of hues.

A Gem of Many Colors

Tourmaline's variety is unmatched, with each color representing different types within the tourmaline group. Historically, the gemstone has been used in jewelry and amulets across cultures. Ancient Egyptians valued it for its ability to emit a static charge, which they believed had magical properties. In the 19th century, tourmaline gained popularity in Europe when it was discovered to come in a myriad of colors, including the rare Paraiba blue.

Family

Tourmaline is a complex silicate mineral group that includes several distinct species and varieties. Each type of tourmaline has a unique chemical composition and crystal structure, contributing to its diverse color range. The most notable members of the tourmaline family include:

• Elbaite: The most common species, which includes various color varieties such as pink (rubellite), green (chrome tourmaline), and blue (indicolite).
• Dravite: Typically brown to yellowish-brown.
• Schorl: The black variety of tourmaline.
• Liddicoatite: Rare, often found in vibrant hues and complex color zoning.

Chemical Composition

Tourmaline's chemical formula is complex and varies between its different species, but it generally includes boron, aluminum, and silicon, among other elements. The wide range of colors is due to the presence of trace elements such as iron, manganese, and copper.

Physical Properties

Hardness: Tourmaline ranks 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for many types of jewelry. It is durable but should still be handled with care to avoid scratching or damage.

Color: Tourmaline is known for its wide color range. The most valued colors include rich pinks, deep greens, and vibrant blues. Some tourmalines exhibit multiple colors in a single crystal, known as bi-color or tri-color tourmalines.

 

Types

Tourmaline is categorized based on color and variety:

1. Rubellite: The pink to red variety of tourmaline, prized for its vivid color.
2. Paraíba Tourmaline: Known for its bright blue to green hues, caused by copper. This rare variety is highly sought after and can be quite valuable.
3. Chrome Tourmaline: A vivid green variety, colored by chromium. It is known for its striking color and rarity.
4. Indicolite: The blue to greenish-blue variety of tourmaline, appreciated for its deep, rich hues.
5. Watermelon Tourmaline: A unique variety with a pink center surrounded by a green outer layer, resembling the appearance of a watermelon slice.
6. Bi-color and Tri-color Tourmaline: Crystals that exhibit multiple colors, often in distinct bands or sections.

As a Birthstone

Tourmaline is one of the birthstones for October, alongside opal. Its wide range of colors allows it to symbolize various qualities, including creativity, healing, and balance. For those born in October, tourmaline represents a meaningful choice that reflects personal expression and versatility.

Choosing Your Tourmaline

When selecting a tourmaline gemstone, consider these factors:

Color: The most valuable tourmalines have vivid, saturated colors. For instance, Paraiba tourmalines with their neon-like blues and greens are especially prized.

Clarity: High-quality tourmalines are generally transparent and free from visible inclusions. However, some inclusions can add character and do not necessarily detract from the stone’s value.

Cut: Tourmalines can be cut into various shapes, including round, oval, cushion, and emerald cuts. The cut should enhance the stone’s color and brilliance.

Care: To maintain the beauty of your tourmaline jewelry:

• Clean: Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Tourmaline is durable but can benefit from gentle cleaning to preserve its luster.
• Avoid: Harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures, which may affect the stone’s color or cause damage. Avoid exposing tourmaline to high heat or sudden temperature changes.
• Store: Keep tourmaline jewelry in a separate compartment to prevent scratches from other gemstones. Tourmaline can be sensitive to impacts and should be stored carefully.