WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF TOURMALINE GEMSTONES?
Tourmaline crystals were first introduced in the 16th century after the Dutch merchants got them from Sri Lanka and transported them to Europe.
At first, they were thought to be other types of gemstones; however, Europeans greatly admired the stone's bright colors like blue, green, red, and yellow. They were named “Ceylonese Magnet” due to their pyroelectricity.
Although the existence of tourmaline in the layered silicate mineral group comes from the 18th century. More emphasis was placed on this gem in the 19th century when it was adopted by users of gemstones and by royalty, for instance, the Russian Empress Catherine the Great.
WHAT IS THE APPEARANCE OF THE TOURMALINE GEMSTONE?
Tourmaline stones have a vivid and colorful appearance that attracts many collectors and jewelry enthusiasts since it is among the most colored gemstones in the market.
They range from the palest of pastels up to solid colors like vibrant pinks, deep greens, rich blues, and bi-colors, or tri-colors such as the Watermelon Tourmaline which is green on the outside, pink in the middle, and white on the inside. Often compared with the Rainbow Moonstone, this gem is simply glimmering.
These gems are classified as either being transparent or opaque, however, it is the transparent gems that are the most sought after due to their brilliance.
Among the physical properties of the gemstone, the most important one is the vitreous or the glassy luster of the stone which increases the beauty and brightness of the gemstone making it an excellent adornment for everyone to use when making jewelry.
When it comes to the toughness on the Mohs hardness scale, tourmaline ranks between 7 to 7.5. That is why it is quite suitable for wearing during the entire day, however, one should still handle the gem with care. The flexibility of color in these together with its good hardness as well as luster makes it a popular gemstone that is both jewelry and collection-oriented.
WHERE ARE HIGH-QUALITY TOURMALINE GEMSTONES FOUND?
The production of these high-quality gemstones is largely based in Brazil with a variety of colors; however, it is the Paraiba tourmaline that is famous for its neon blue and green tinge. Other scarce sources are the countries of Afghanistan and Pakistan which produce high-quality pink and green tourmalines.
Africa is another important region, with indicated resources in nations such as Mozambique, Nigeria, and Madagascar, yielding fascinating bi-color and tri-color types. Another famous crystal that comes from this region is Tanzanite.
Also, America, primarily California and Maine are the leading producers of this gem in exotic hues of green and pink. These different places have made this gem to be one of the most diverse gemstones as far as color is concerned.
WHICH ZODIAC SIGN IS ASSOCIATED WITH TOURMALINE GEMSTONE?
Tourmaline gemstone is primarily connected to the zodiac sign of Libra. The zodiac sign Libra is associated with the symbol of scales because people born under this sign are sensitive to beauty, balance, and harmony. This relates to tourmaline meaning because it comes in varieties of colors and more so the character of the Libra can be said to relate to the ‘balance and harmony’ properties of this stone.
It was also believed to assist Libras with issues related to relationships, enhancement of empathy, and help maintain inner harmony and balance. Furthermore, Libra’s appreciation for balance can be referred to as this stone’s ability to stabilize the energies of an individual.
However, other zodiac signs that can reap the benefits of the powers inhibited by the tourmaline gemstone include Gemini, Virgo, and Taurus, where the gem can also improve their state of affairs with the help of the harmonizing energy, making it universal and self-significant.
WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF TOURMALINE GEMSTONES?
Tourmaline gemstones are famous for their availability in numerous colors and they have a special name for each color. Some of the main types of tourmaline gemstones include:
1. Paraíba Tourmaline: The Paraíba is one of the rarest types of tourmaline with a neon-blue to green color that is highly valuable. It was first discovered in a region called Paraíba in Brazil which is why the name.
2. Watermelon Tourmaline: This variety has concentric circles of pink and green and is white or colorless in the middle like a watermelon.
3. Rubellite Tourmaline: Rubellite means red and this is predominantly pink to red or displaying a purplish shade. It is appreciated for its high density and hue and is capable of rivaling common precious stones such as rubies.
4. Chrome Tourmaline: Chrome is known to have a green color commonly because of the chromium element. The Rare Chrome Tourmaline is much sought after for its bright color and good clearing properties.
5. Bi-color and Tri-color Tourmaline: These varieties are characterized by two or three different colors in one crystal making great color contrast such as pink and green, pink, green, and white, and many others.
6. Indicolite Tourmaline: Indicolite is a term used when the colored stone is blue, ranging from pastel sky blue to sapphire blue.
7. Verdelite Tourmaline: Green tourmaline meaning is reflected in its name Verdelite, the colors of which range from pale green, similar to aqua to green which is so dark like the color of the forest.
These are some predominant types of beautiful colors of tourmaline stones that are present in the market in different shades.
WHAT ARE THE HEALING PROPERTIES OF TOURMALINE GEMSTONES?
Tourmaline benefits relate to the body by performing detoxification and purification functions.
Physical Healing Properties
- It protects the body and improves its defense and energy levels hence the immune system.
- Tourmaline can also help reduce people’s chronic pain and swelling.
- This gemstone is expected to align the body's energy fields or chakras.
- It is also believed to enhance the blood flow hence assisting in the treatment of stress and tension.
- It may also help with increasing the ability of the body to bend the joints more and reduce the tightness of the muscles.
Emotional Healing Properties
- Tourmaline is believed to have a positive effect on a person’s emotional stability and steadiness.
- It helps in reducing the levels of stress and increases the peace and happiness of a person.
- It is thought to help someone get rid of feelings of being afraid and to also overcome nervousness.
- Tourmaline stone is expected to promote self-affirmation, hence a person becomes more confident and can make better decisions.
Metaphysical Properties
- Tourmaline has metaphysical characteristics that link with the purification and cleansing of the body, mind, and soul.
- It enhances one’s ability to focus and keep their concentration and positive thinking.
- It helps with a person's ability to concentrate and think positively as well as boosting confidence and determination.
- This gemstone has the capability to strengthen the ability of a person’s connection with their inner feelings.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR TOURMALINE GEMSTONE?
Tourmaline gemstones are relatively hard and durable but still need special care and attention. Here are a few tips on how to care for your tourmaline gemstone:
Cleaning:
Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean your tourmaline gemstones. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage the gemstone.
Storage:
Store your tourmaline gemstones separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. Wrap them in a soft cloth or place them in a jewelry box with separate compartments.
Handling:
Avoid exposing your tourmaline gemstones to sudden temperature changes as it can cause them to crack. Remove your tourmaline jewelry when engaging in physical activities or using household chemicals.
Maintenance:
Regularly check your tourmaline gemstones for any signs of damage or loosening of the settings. If you notice any issues, take them to a professional jeweler for repair.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs)
1. What Is The Significance Of Tourmaline?
Tourmaline gemstones are believed to have healing properties that benefit both the body and the mind. They are thought to help with detoxification, improve energy levels, reduce pain and swelling, and enhance emotional stability and positivity.
2. What Is An Interesting Fact About Tourmaline?
Real tourmaline gemstones have unique color zoning and inclusions that are not found in synthetic or fake gemstones. You can also perform a scratch test as tourmaline has a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale. However, the best way to confirm the authenticity of a tourmaline gemstone is to have it examined by a professional gemologist.
3. Can Tourmaline Be Worn Daily?
Yes, tourmaline gemstones can be worn every day as they are relatively hard and durable. However, they should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage from harsh chemicals or physical activities.
4. What Color of Tourmaline is the Most Valuable?
The most valuable color of tourmaline is the neon-blue to green Paraíba tourmaline, followed by the vivid pink to red Rubellite tourmaline. The value of tourmaline gemstones is determined by their color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
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