tourmaline jewellery guide
What are Tourmalines?
Tourmaline is a captivating and versatile mineral that comes in a wide range of colours and varieties, making it a popular choice in the world of gemstones and jewellery. It's a complex borosilicate mineral with a distinctive crystalline structure that contributes to its exceptional optical and physical properties. Tourmaline can be found in various geological settings, including pegmatites (igneous rocks), metamorphic rocks, and sedimentary deposits. Tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This places it in a range that makes it suitable for jewellery, as it's relatively durable and resistant to everyday wear and tear. However, while tourmaline is quite hard, it's still important to handle and store your tourmaline jewellery with care to avoid scratching or damage.
Tourmaline Jewellery Inspiration
Tourmaline Lore and Meaning
Tourmaline has a rich history of lore and meaning, with various cultures attributing unique properties and significance to this captivating gemstone. Here are some of the common beliefs and associations associated with tourmaline:
- Ancient Connections: Tourmaline has been used by different cultures throughout history for its believed spiritual and healing properties. It is said to have been used by ancient civilisations as a protective charm against negative energies and as a talisman for promoting good luck and well-being.
- Symbol of Love and Relationships: Pink tourmaline is sometimes referred to as the "stone of love" and is thought to represent love, compassion, and emotional healing. It is said to help soothe emotional wounds and promote feelings of love and self-acceptance.
- Talisman of Physical Healing: In various holistic and alternative healing practices, tourmaline has been used to address physical ailments. It is believed to have detoxifying properties, promote circulation, and support the immune system.
It's important to note that the meanings and beliefs associated with tourmaline can vary widely based on cultural, historical, and individual perspectives. While many people find personal significance and resonance with these interpretations, others may simply appreciate tourmaline for its natural beauty and aesthetic appeal. Whether you're drawn to tourmaline for its alleged metaphysical properties or simply admire it as a stunning gemstone, its diverse colours and unique characteristics continue to captivate and inspire.
Tourmaline Jewellery Colour Guide
WHAT ARE THE BEST SHADES OF TOURMALINE FOR JEWELLERY?
The concept of the "best" shades of tourmaline is subjective, often guided by personal preferences, cultural influences, and prevailing trends.
Among the highly coveted and esteemed tourmaline shades, Paraíba tourmaline stands out with its captivating neon blue to green-blue tones. Watermelon tourmaline's blend of pink and green, resembling its namesake, garners attention for its unique charm. Verdelite tourmaline, showcasing vibrant greens, symbolises nature's vitality. Additionally, the allure of bi-color and multi-color tourmaline, further contribute to the kaleidoscope of tourmaline's splendour.
Where does Tourmaline come from?
Tourmaline is found in different parts of the world, and where it's discovered can impact its colours.
Brazil is famous for a variety of tourmaline colours, including the striking Paraíba tourmaline with its blues and greens. Madagascar produces pinks, blues, and greens. Mozambique is a valued source of vibrant Paraíba-like tourmalines.
Afghanistan offers a mix of colours, especially pink and green. Namibia is known for its beautiful green gemstones. These countries all play a role in providing the captivating array of tourmaline shades available today.
Types of Tourmaline
Pink Tourmaline
Pink tourmaline, with its gentle and rosy hue, holds a special place in the world of gemstones. Radiating feelings of love, compassion, and tenderness, this gem is often cherished as a symbol of emotional healing and comfort. Its subtle yet captivating color is a reminder of life's softer moments, making pink tourmaline a cherished choice for jewellery that carries heartfelt sentiments.
Watermelon Tourmaline
Watermelon tourmaline is a gemstone that delights with its remarkable resemblance to its namesake. With its striking combination of pink or red at the centre and a refreshing green hue around the edges, this gem evokes the image of a slice of watermelon. Beyond its alluring appearance, watermelon tourmaline is often associated with feelings of joy, balance, and harmony.
Schorl Tourmaline
Schorl tourmaline, often known simply as black tourmaline, is a gemstone appreciated for its grounding qualities. People believe that wearing black tourmaline can help shield against negative energies and promote a sense of stability. With its aura of resilience, black tourmaline is like a guardian stone, offering a sense of comfort and calmness in the midst of life's challenges.
october birthstone
Tourmaline Birthstone Jewellery
Tourmaline, as an October birthstone, embodies the diverse and vibrant spirit of those born during this month. With its kaleidoscope of colours, tourmaline mirrors the changing hues of autumn, reflecting the multifaceted nature of October individuals.
This gemstone is believed to bring qualities of balance and harmony, aligning well with the autumnal equinox that marks the changing of seasons.
Tourmaline's rich spectrum of colours offers a personalised touch, allowing October-born individuals to choose a shade that resonates with their unique personality and style. Whether it's the soothing pink for emotional well-being, the vivid green for vitality, or any other enchanting colour, tourmaline serves as a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate one's birth month and embrace the enchantment of fall.