Rubellite Tourmaline

Rubellite Tourmaline is a special type of Tourmaline that has an incredible bright red to pinkish red color. It is also known as the Red Tourmaline. Most Tourmaline is simply named after the color that is appears. However the shocking pinks and reds that can be called Rubellite Tourmaline are so bright that have been designated their own name.

The word Rubellite comes from the latin wordrubellus which means red. While many Tourmalines are red, they must abide by a very specific rule in order to be called a Rubellite Tourmaline. When the gem is viewed under different lighting conditions (inside, outside, daylight, shade) it must remain a red color. Many gems will shift their color from red to purple under different lighting conditions. A true Rubellite Tourmaline must remain red no matter what the lighting conditions are.

Rubellite Tourmaline Inclusions:

While most gem quality Tourmaline should be free of inclusions, the Rubellite Tourmaline is some what exempt from that rule. These gems are so rare that they commonly come with small insignificant inclusions.

The old rules still applies however, a Rubellite Tourmaline with no inclusions is worth far more than one with visible inclusions.

Rubellite Tourmaline Colors:

The primary hue should always be Red. When the gem is first viewed the immediate response should be that the Rubellite Tourmaline is red. Upon closer inspection there can be secondary hues of vivid pink and purples but the overall stone must always be red.

Rubellite Tourmaline Sources:

Most Rubellite Tourmaline has come from Brazil with newer discoveries being found in Afghanistan. The origin of the stones does not impact the value but it is still nice to know where they came form.

Rubellite Tourmaline Treatments:

Most Rubellite Tourmaline on the market has been heat treated gently. This can improve the color and reduce the visible inclusions. Most of the time this treatment is not disclosed however it is important to be ware of it. It does not detract from the value of the stone.

Rubellite Tourmaline Durability:

Like all Tourmaline the Rubellite Tourmaline has quiet good durability. It sits at 7 - 7.5 on the MOHS scale so it is suitable for everyday wear.The only important factor to recognize is that any inclusions resent in the stone can act as weak points so make sure there are no major surface reaching cracks in the stone.