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Tourmalines are the rainbow stones in every shade. Tourmaline is one of the most vivid and diverse precious gemstones.
Its defining characteristic is a remarkably rich color palette.
Pink, green, blue, yellow, brown, and even two-toned crystals occur in nature, which is why tourmaline is often called the “rainbow stone.”
According to gemological institutes, tourmalines are classified into 12 primary colors and more than 50 shades.
This diversity is explained by the presence of various elements within the mineral — iron, manganese, copper, chromium, vanadium, and titanium.
It is these elements that produce the stunning variety of tones: from delicate pastels to vivid neons.
History and Origin of Tourmalines
The name “tourmaline” derives from the word turmali in Sinhalese, meaning “multi-colored.”
The first stones reached Europe in the 18th century, when Dutch sailors brought them from the island of Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka).
Tourmalines quickly became popular among collectors and jewelers thanks to their unusual colors and lasting brilliance.
Where Tourmalines Are Mined
Today the major tourmaline deposits are found in different corners of the world.
The greatest quantities are mined in:
Brazil — particularly renowned for rare blue and watermelon tourmalines;
Afghanistan and Pakistan — vivid pink and green crystals are found here;
Africa (Nigeria, Mozambique, Madagascar) — known for a wide spectrum of hues;
Russia — gem-quality tourmalines are mined in the Urals and Transbaikalia.
Physical Properties
Hardness: 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale — the stone is resistant to scratching and suitable for everyday wear.
Cleavage: absent, which makes tourmaline less brittle during cutting.
Density: 3.0–3.3 g/cm³.
Brilliance: glassy, sometimes with a slight silky effect.
Pleochroism: pronounced — the hue shifts under different lighting conditions.
Optical properties: refractive index 1.614–1.666, birefringence up to 0.040.
Brittleness: moderate — requires careful handling.
Why Choose Tourmaline
unique natural palette — 12 colors and more than 50 shades;
high durability and longevity;
rare collector’s varieties (Paraiba, watermelon, indicolite);
versatility and natural beauty requiring no enhancement.
Shop Tourmalines in Our Catalogue
On our website you will find natural tourmalines in every cut style and color group — from classic solid-color stones to rare polychrome crystals.
Every stone is selected for quality, clarity, and natural beauty, so you can find a tourmaline that will become part of your collection or future jewelry piece.