Tourmaline is a diverse and colorful gemstone group, celebrated for its extraordinary range of hues—virtually every color in the spectrum can be found in tourmaline. Its name comes from the Sinhalese word turmali, meaning “mixed gems,” reflecting both its varied colors and the fact that crystals often contain more than one hue.

Key Characteristics:

• Color: Available in pink, red (rubellite), green (verdellite), blue (indicolite), yellow, purple, brown, black (schorl), and multi-colored forms like watermelon tourmaline (pink core with green rim).

• Clarity: Generally transparent to translucent; darker varieties can appear opaque. Inclusions are common in some colors, especially rubellite.

• Hardness: 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale—durable enough for most jewelry.

• Crystal Structure: Belongs to the hexagonal crystal system and often grows in long, striated prismatic crystals.

• Optical Effects: Strong pleochroism—color can appear different depending on the viewing angle.

Symbolism & Uses:

Tourmaline is often linked with protection, creativity, and emotional balance. Different colors are believed to have distinct metaphysical properties—green for vitality, pink for love, blue for tranquility, and black for grounding.

Origins:

Found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, Afghanistan, Mozambique, Nigeria, Madagascar, and the USA (California and Maine).