Tourmaline can be found in many different colors, and as a result is known as the ‘gemstone of the rainbow’. Here we provide a brief overview to this fascinating and unique stone, which is an alternative birthstone to opal for those born during the month of October.

Colors of Tourmaline

Pink/Red: Known as Rubellite. Dark, rich reds are some of the most valuable hues of tourmaline. Pink stones often have flaws, and large flawless stones of these colors are uncommon.

Blue: Known as Indicolite. Highly prized, especially when pure blue and without green tones, particularly Parabia Blue, which is found in Brazil. Large, flawless blue varieties are possible.

Green: A number of green shades can be found, with those containing chromium by far the most valuable.

Brown: Known as Dravite. Common and invaluable.

Yellow/Orange: Of intermediate value. Clean, flawless yellow and orange stones are popular in items of jewelry.

Color-change varieties of tourmaline are also available, and are often cut into rectangular shapes to display them to their best. Black hues can be found, and are known as Schorl. Clear varieties also exist but are rare.

Other Tourmaline Facts

Hardness: 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale.

Geographical Origin: Various sites around the world, including Brazil, Italy, Russia, Sri Lanka & USA.

Where Found: Igneous and metamorphic rock, in pegmatites, shists and hydrothermal replacement deposits.

Chemical Composition: (Li, Na, Ca)(Fe, Mg, Mn, Al)₃(Al, Fe)₆ (BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH,F)₄

Origin of Name: It is believed that the name ‘Tourmaline’ comes from Sinhalese word ‘Turamali’, which was originally given to unidentified gem gravel mixtures in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka).

Properties: Insoluble in acids. Strong pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties.