Tourmaline Gemstone Guide
- Caram
- Mar 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 19
Tourmaline is a semi-precious stone prized for its beauty and durability. Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors and has unique properties. A tourmaline gem is not only beautiful but also durable, making it a fantastic choice for both statement and everyday jewelry. In this guide, we explore what makes tourmaline special, its meaning, and its value.
What is Tourmaline?
Tourmaline is a complex boron silicate mineral that forms in a variety of colors due to the presence of different trace elements. It is one of the most diverse gemstones, found in shades of green, pink, red, blue, yellow, and even multicolored varieties. Green tourmaline stones, also known as verdelite, are among the most popular and sought-after due to their vibrant and natural appearance.
How Rare is Tourmaline?
While tourmaline is found in various locations worldwide, fine-quality specimens with intense color and minimal inclusions are relatively rare. Some of the most prized tourmalines come from Brazil, Afghanistan, and Madagascar. Certain varieties, such as Paraiba tourmaline, are exceptionally rare and command premium prices due to their unique neon-like glow. Despite its availability in multiple regions, high-quality tourmaline stones in large sizes remain highly sought after.
Tourmaline Meaning
Tourmaline is known as the stone of protection and balance. It is believed to shield its wearer from negative energy and promote emotional stability. Different colors of tourmaline are associated with various metaphysical properties—green tourmaline stone, for example, is thought to attract prosperity and enhance creativity, while pink tourmaline is linked to love and compassion.
Tourmaline Properties
Tourmaline ranks between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for rings, pendants, and earrings. Its ability to form in multiple colors makes it one of the most versatile gemstones for jewelry. Additionally, tourmaline exhibits pleochroism, meaning it can show different shades depending on the viewing angle.
Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat Weight
Color
Tourmaline is known for its extensive color spectrum, with green tourmaline stones being among the most popular. Other varieties include pink, red (rubellite), blue, and the exceptionally rare Paraiba tourmaline.
Cut
Tourmaline is often cut into various shapes, including oval, cushion, and emerald cuts, to enhance its color and brilliance. Due to its pleochroic nature, skilled lapidaries carefully orient the stone to display its best color.
Clarity
High-quality tourmaline gems are typically eye-clean, though some varieties, like rubellite, often contain natural inclusions. Clarity significantly impacts the gemstone's value, with cleaner stones being more desirable.
Carat Weight
Tourmaline is available in a wide range of sizes, and larger stones with intense color and good clarity are highly valuable. Paraiba and rubellite tourmalines are especially rare in larger carat weights.
Conclusion
Tourmaline is an extraordinary gemstone known for its stunning variety of colors and unique properties. Understanding its rarity, meaning, and value will help you make an informed choice when selecting a tourmaline gem for your collection or jewelry piece.
Caram specializes in sourcing and crafting natural gemstones. Explore our curated gemstone collection!
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