The history of tourmaline stone stretches back thousands of years ago and was cherished by various ancient civilizations. The gemstone was first discovered in ancient Egypt, where it was highly valued and used for decorative purposes. One of the earliest recorded sources of tourmaline is Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon). Sri Lankan tourmalines have been revered for centuries and were highly prized by the ancient Sinhalese people.
The word ‘Tourmaline’, is derived from the Sinhalese word “turmali,” meaning “mixed colors,” is a mineral group composed of several related gemstone varieties. It stands out as a captivating gemstone known for its stunning variety of colors and unique properties. It is available in almost every hue imaginable, including vibrant pinks, rich greens, fiery reds, electric blues, and warm yellows. Some tourmalines even exhibit multiple colors within a single crystal, making them truly captivating and highly sought after by gemstone connoisseurs.
Tourmaline is classified into various distinct varieties, each possessing its own unique characteristics and allure.
Rubellite : Rubellite also known as Pink Tourmaline is a beautiful, tough and hard precious gemstone extremely rich in Lithium, which attributes to its raspberry coloration. It is among the most cherished tourmaline varieties. The intense color and exceptional clarity make it a favored gemstone for jewelry. It also makes a great replacement for rubies.
Paraiba Tourmaline : Discovered in 1989, in Brazil’s Paraiba region, Paraiba tourmalines are among the world’s most prized gemstones. These rare gems are renowned for showing intense blue colors.
Watermelon Tourmaline : Named for its resemblance with watermelon, the gemstone features concentric rings of pink with green rind, creating a captivating visual effect. The name was coined by George Robeley Howe [1860-1950] of Norway, Maine, USA.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast or someone seeking a meaningful and beautiful piece of jewelry, tourmaline offers a world of possibilities. Its kaleidoscope of colors and remarkable characteristics make it a gemstone that truly stands out.