Origin
Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate with hardness 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale: durable, yet soft enough to allow intricate cuts.
Its brilliance is lively, its color intense, often multitone, with optical effects that take your breath away
The most famous deposits are in Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, Afghanistan, and the United States. Each source brings its nuances: the neon blues of Brazilian Paraibas, the bright greens of Africa, the pastel pinks of the U.S.
It is the bond with their land of origin that makes them so diverse and captivating.
History
“Turamali, lapis de coloribus mixtis.” (Tourmaline, the stone of mixed colors) – ancient Sinhalese definition
In Europe, Tourmaline became known in the 18th century, when Dutch traders imported it from Sri Lanka. It was called the “magnetic stone,” as when heated it could attract pipe ash.
Over time it won the hearts of royals and collectors, becoming one of the most beloved Gems of the Art Nouveau period, chosen for its ability to amaze with unexpected hues. Today, it remains a symbol of creativity and transformation.
Technical characteristics
Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate with hardness 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale: durable, yet soft enough to allow intricate cuts.
Its brilliance is lively, its color intense, often multitone, with optical effects that take your breath away. The Paraiba variety is the most famous and rarest, thanks to its electric hues derived from copper.
Its brilliance is lively, its color intense, often multitone, with optical effects that take your breath away
Variety
The Tourmaline family is very large:
- Paraiba: neon blues and greens, extremely rare and valuable, discovered in Brazil and later in Mozambique and Nigeria.
- Indicolite: blue-green shades reminiscent of tropical lagoons.
- Pink: from pastels to deep magentas, symbols of love.
- Green: from fresh mint to intense forest tones.
- Schorl: opaque black, elegant and protective.
- Watermelon: pink and green bicolor, like a slice of ripe melon.
Each variety is a chromatic universe. What makes Tourmaline unique is the certainty that no two will ever be the same.