Rubellite Tourmaline Overview

Name: Rubellite (a red to pink variety of Tourmaline)

Chemical Formula: (Na,Ca)(Li,Mg,Al)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4

Mineral Group: Tourmaline

Crystal System: Trigonal

Hardness: 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale

Luster: Vitreous

Transparency: Transparent to translucent

Specific Gravity: ~3.0–3.2

Color and Appearance:

Rubellite is known for its vibrant, deep pink to red hues, sometimes with purplish or violet overtones. Its color is caused primarily by manganese.

• Top-quality rubellite remains vividly red under both natural and artificial light.

• If the color shifts to brownish or pinkish in artificial light, it’s often classified simply as pink tourmaline, not rubellite.

True Rubellite is rare and highly valued for its saturated, glowing color and strong presence.

Notable Characteristics:

• Color Stability: A key feature of fine rubellite is that its red color does not fade in different lighting.

• Inclusions: Often contains natural inclusions, which are accepted in high-quality stones as evidence of authenticity.

• Durability: Hard enough for jewelry, but care should be taken to avoid sharp impacts.

Geological Formation & Sources:

Rubellite forms in pegmatites – coarse-grained igneous rocks – and occasionally in metamorphic rocks.

Major Sources:

• Brazil (notably Minas Gerais)

• Afghanistan

• Madagascar

• Nigeria

• Mozambique

• United States (California and Maine)

Metaphysical and Symbolic Meaning (Optional):

• Rubellite is considered a stone of the heart, symbolizing passion, love, and emotional healing.

• Said to enhance confidence, strength of will, and creativity.

• Often associated with the heart chakra, promoting emotional balance and compassion.