Tourmaline

Tourmaline Stone Meaning and History

The name Tourmaline originates from the Sinhalese word "toramalli," which translates to "stone with mixed colors," reflecting its tendency to display multiple colors within a single crystal. Few gems rival Tourmaline's stunning array of colors, perhaps explaining why ancient mystics believed it could inspire artistic expression – boasting a color palette for every mood. Among its most popular varieties are the pink and red Rubellites, the emerald green "chrome" Tourmalines, and the neon green and blue-to-violet "Paraíba" Tourmalines.

Due to its diverse range of colors, Tourmaline was often mistaken for other gemstones. For instance, one of the "rubies" in the Russian crown jewels, the "Caesar’s Ruby" pendant, is actually red (Rubellite) Tourmaline. Similarly, in the 1500s, a Spanish conquistador mistook green Tourmaline crystals found in Brazil for emeralds. Such cases of mistaken identity persisted for centuries until scientists recognized Tourmaline as a distinct mineral species in the 1800s.

Different colors of Tourmaline are believed to possess their own healing properties. Black Tourmaline is thought to protect the wearer and instill self-confidence, while Pink Tourmaline embodies love and is associated with compassion and gentleness. Green Tourmaline promotes courage, strength, and stamina. Tourmaline is traditionally given to celebrate the eighth wedding anniversary.

Where is Tourmaline found?

This stone is predominantly found in Brazil, with additional mining operations in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kenya, Madagascar, and Mozambique, among other African countries. Historically significant producers of fine tourmaline in the United States include California and Maine.

Most of the tourmaline mined in Brazil for centuries originates from pegmatites in the state of Minas Gerais, which serve as sources for a diverse array of gem minerals. In the late 1980s, however, Brazil's Paraíba State introduced electric green, blue, and violet tourmalines to the gem market. Scientists determined that the intense colors were due to trace amounts of copper, a coloring agent previously unrecorded in any other tourmaline. In the early 2000s, similar copper-bearing tourmalines were discovered in Mozambique and Nigeria. The best Paraíba and Paraíba-type tourmalines command high prices due to their vivid hues, saturated colors, and rarity.

In the United States, Southern California and Maine boast several pegmatite districts. For over a century, these regions have intermittently produced substantial quantities of tourmaline.

Maine's first significant tourmaline deposit was uncovered in 1820 at Mount Mica in Paris by two young boys exploring the area. Today, a quarry at Mount Mica sporadically yields various colors of gem tourmaline. The Dunton Mine near Plumbago Mountain is Maine's most prolific producer of tourmaline.

California's commercial tourmaline mining began in 1898 with the opening of the Himalaya pegmatite in the Mesa Grande district, renowned for its fine rubellite. San Diego mines supplied 120 tons of gem rubellite to Imperial China between 1902 and 1910 to fulfill Empress Dowager Cixi's fascination with the vibrant color. However, with Cixi's death in 1908 and the subsequent overthrow of the Qing dynasty, California's tourmaline mining era declined. Today, only a handful of mines in San Diego County occasionally produce gem-quality tourmaline.

Tourmaline Stone Care and Cleaning

This stone, rated 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, is generally suitable for everyday wear. Its vibrant colors make it a popular choice for jewelry. These gems are typically stable enough to withstand light and most chemicals, but they can be damaged by heat. Therefore, it is best to clean this stone with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as they are not recommended for this type of gemstone.