Nature’s Most Colorful Gem
Tourmaline is the gemstone of infinite color. From fiery reds to electric greens, ocean blues to candy pinks—and even bi-color and tri-color combinations—no other gem offers the dazzling diversity of Tourmaline. Beloved by gem collectors, jewelry designers, and metaphysical enthusiasts alike, Tourmaline is a gem that excites the imagination and radiates energy.
With a history that spans continents and cultures, and a spectrum that rivals the rainbow, Tourmaline is both a marvel of nature and a favorite in fine jewelry.
🔬 Scientific Profile
Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral with a variable chemical formula, typically expressed as (Ca,K,Na)(Al,Fe,Li,Mg,Mn)₃(Al,Cr,Fe,V)₆(BO₃)₃(Si₆O₁₈)(OH,F)₄. It belongs to the trigonal crystal system and forms elongated, striated crystals that are often terminated with natural pyramid-shaped tips.
It measures between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. Tourmaline has a refractive index ranging from 1.614 to 1.666 and a specific gravity of approximately 3.0 to 3.2. It also exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it can show different colors from different angles—a trait that adds depth and character to every gem.
Tourmaline is typically untreated, although some pink and red stones may be gently heated to improve color. It is found in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks, with major sources including Brazil, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Mozambique, Madagascar, and the United States.
🌈 Color and Variety
Tourmaline is often called the “chameleon gem” for good reason—it comes in more natural color variations than any other gemstone. Each hue is classified into a specific variety, many of which are prized for their rarity and brilliance.
Rubellite is the vivid pink to red variety of Tourmaline. True Rubellite displays saturated red hues under all lighting conditions and is highly sought after for its resemblance to ruby—but with greater clarity and fewer inclusions.
Indicolite is the rare blue variety of Tourmaline. Ranging from steel blue to bright Caribbean blue, Indicolite is exceptionally rare and often found in small, clean crystals. The most vivid specimens are coveted by collectors.
Paraíba Tourmaline is the crown jewel of the family. With its electric neon blues and greens caused by trace amounts of copper and manganese, Paraíba Tourmaline is one of the most valuable colored gemstones in the world. First discovered in Brazil in the 1980s and later in Nigeria and Mozambique, true Paraíba exhibits an otherworldly glow and intense saturation.
Chrome Tourmaline is a vivid forest green variety colored by chromium and vanadium. It is much rarer than its lookalike, green Tourmaline, and often mistaken for Tsavorite garnet or emerald due to its pure green hue and brilliance.
Verdelite refers to green Tourmaline in general. It can range from mint to olive to deep bottle green, and while more common than other varieties, it remains incredibly beautiful and highly wearable.
Watermelon Tourmaline is one of the most visually stunning gems on Earth. These bi-color or tri-color crystals display a pink center with a green outer layer—just like a slice of watermelon. When cut properly, the effect is natural and dramatic.
Canary Tourmaline is the vivid yellow variety, usually found in East Africa. Its bright, lemony tone is extremely rare and adds a burst of sunshine to any jewelry design.
Dravite is the brown variety of Tourmaline, often displaying golden, chocolate, or bronze hues. Though less well-known, it is valued for its earthy elegance.
Schorl is the black variety and actually the most common form of Tourmaline in nature. It is used in metaphysical circles for protection and grounding and is also gaining traction in edgy, modern jewelry designs.
📖 History and Symbolism
Tourmaline has a colorful past—quite literally. Its name comes from the Sinhalese word “turmali,” meaning “mixed stones,” because early traders confused Tourmaline with other gems. Dutch merchants brought it to Europe from Sri Lanka in the 1700s, and it quickly gained popularity for its vibrant colors and unusual electrical properties.
In fact, Tourmaline is piezoelectric, meaning it can generate an electrical charge when heated or rubbed—an effect once believed to give it mystical powers. It was worn by alchemists in the Middle Ages who believed it could aid in communication with the spiritual realm.
Metaphysically, Tourmaline is considered a powerful healing stone. Pink Tourmaline is associated with love and emotional balance, green with vitality and abundance, and black with protection and grounding. The stone as a whole is known for aligning the chakras and promoting inner harmony.
Tourmaline is the birthstone for October, alongside opal, and is also used to celebrate the 8th wedding anniversary.
💎 Tourmaline in Jewelry
Tourmaline’s wide color range and durability make it a designer’s dream. From bold solitaire rings to elegant pendants and vibrant multicolor bracelets, Tourmaline offers endless creative possibilities. Its hardness and stability make it practical for daily wear, while its uniqueness ensures no two pieces are ever the same.
Custom-cut Tourmalines—especially bi-color and fantasy cuts—are especially popular in high-end designs. Large, clean stones in bright hues remain in high demand among gem collectors and boutique jewelers.
Tourmaline also pairs beautifully with diamonds and colored sapphires and complements both white and yellow metals, depending on the tone. Whether your style is classic, modern, or completely one-of-a-kind, there is a Tourmaline for you.
✨ Explore the World of Tourmaline at Chicago Gems & Jewelry
At Chicago Gems & Jewelry, we offer an expertly curated collection of fine Tourmalines—from vibrant Rubellites and mint-green Verdelites to rare Indicolites and collector-grade Paraíba stones. Every gem is hand-selected by our GIA graduate gemologist for its beauty, rarity, and natural character.
Whether you’re looking for a dazzling one-of-a-kind ring, a multicolor pendant, or a meaningful gift for an October birthday, we’re here to help you discover the perfect Tourmaline.
Family owned and operated since 2008, our Crystal Lake showroom serves clients locally and across the country with honesty, passion, and unparalleled gem expertise.
Chicago Gems & Jewelry – Where Knowledge Meets Beauty, and Every Stone Tells a Story.
