Product Details

Stone type: Tourmaline

Weight: 12.15 ct

Dimension: 19.50X13.50X7.50 mm

Color: Bi Color

Shape & Cut: Oval, SHA cut

Treatment: Unheated and Untreated (No Indications Observed)

Shipment from: India

Tourmaline: The Gemstone of Many Colors

Tourmaline is a fascinating and diverse group of minerals celebrated for its wide range of colors and unique crystal structure. Its name is derived from the Sinhalese word "turamali," which means "stone with mixed colors," a fitting description for this gem's extraordinary ability to exhibit multiple colors in a single specimen. Tourmaline's popularity stems not only from its beauty but also from its intriguing optical and physical properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral that can contain elements such as aluminum, iron, magnesium, sodium, lithium, or potassium. Its general chemical formula is XY₃Z₆(T₆O₁₈)(BO₃)₃V₃W, where X, Y, Z, T, V, and W represent different elements that may vary depending on the specific type of tourmaline. This chemical complexity is what gives rise to the wide variety of colors.

Tourmaline crystallizes in the trigonal crystal system and typically forms elongated, prismatic crystals with striations running along the length. These crystals can be transparent to opaque, depending on the specific variety.

Colors of Tourmaline

One of the most distinctive features of tourmaline is its incredible diversity of colors. It is often referred to as the "rainbow gemstone" due to this trait. The color variations are caused by the different trace elements present in the crystal structure, and tourmaline can display almost every color imaginable.

• Pink and Red Tourmaline (Rubellite): Due to traces of manganese, rubellite ranges from soft pink to deep red. This variety is one of the most sought-after types.
• Green Tourmaline (Verdelite): This variety owes its vibrant green color to traces of chromium or vanadium. Green tourmaline is one of the more common and valued colors.
• Blue Tourmaline (Indicolite): The presence of iron gives rise to the shades of blue seen in indicolite, which can range from light sky blue to dark navy.
• Watermelon Tourmaline: This is a unique and striking variety with a pink center and a green outer layer, resembling a slice of watermelon. These stones are particularly prized by collectors.
• Black Tourmaline (Schorl): One of the most common forms of tourmaline, schorl is opaque and black, often used in metaphysical practices for protection and grounding.
• Paraíba Tourmaline: Perhaps the most famous and valuable variety, Paraíba tourmaline is an electrifying blue or greenish-blue, caused by the presence of copper. Discovered in the Brazilian state of Paraíba in the late 1980s, these stones are highly prized for their neon-like brilliance.

Tourmaline's Optical Properties

One fascinating optical feature of tourmaline is its pleochroism, which means that the gemstone can show different colors when viewed from different angles. This property is particularly pronounced in darker-colored tourmalines like indicolite or rubellite.

Some tourmalines also display a cat’s eye effect, known as chatoyancy, caused by fine parallel inclusions within the stone that reflect light in a narrow band, creating a cat’s-eye-like appearance.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Tourmaline has been cherished for centuries, admired by many cultures for its beauty and supposed mystical properties. In the 18th century, Dutch traders introduced it to Europe, where it quickly became fashionable.

• Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties: In metaphysical traditions, tourmaline is believed to be a powerful protector and energy enhancer. Different colors are associated with different healing properties. For instance:
  • Black tourmaline is often used for grounding and protection.
  • Pink tourmaline is said to open the heart to love and compassion.
  • Green tourmaline is associated with vitality and growth.

Tourmaline is also believed to have electrical properties. Pyroelectric and piezoelectric effects in tourmaline make it generate an electric charge when heated, cooled, or subjected to pressure.

Sources and Occurrences

Tourmaline is mined in many parts of the world, and different locations are known for producing distinct colors and varieties. Some of the key sources include:

• Brazil: One of the most important sources, known for producing a wide range of colors, including the rare Paraíba tourmaline.
• Afghanistan and Pakistan: These regions produce vibrant pink, red, and green tourmaline.
• Maine, USA: Known for producing high-quality pink and green tourmaline.
• Africa: Countries like Mozambique, Madagascar, and Nigeria are notable producers of tourmaline, especially the coveted Paraíba-like blues and greens.

Uses in Jewelry:

Tourmaline’s versatility and wide range of colors make it a popular choice for all types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. It is often faceted to maximize its brilliance and color. Watermelon tourmaline slices are often used in bohemian or artistic designs due to their unique and colorful patterns.

Tourmaline is a relatively durable gemstone, with a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.

Care and Maintenance:

To care for tourmaline, avoid exposing it to high heat or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause fractures. It is best to clean tourmaline with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners that could damage the stone.

Conclusion:

Tourmaline's extraordinary range of colors, unique optical effects, and historical significance make it a highly prized gemstone in both jewelry and metaphysical practices. Whether appreciated for its beauty or its supposed healing properties, tourmaline continues to captivate gem enthusiasts around the world.