All About the Different Types of Tourmaline: Their Meaning and Colours

Tourmaline, a gemstone celebrated for its extraordinary variety of colours, is a true marvel of the mineral world. From vibrant pinks and greens to deep blues and reds, Tourmaline's spectrum of hues rivals a rainbow, making it a favourite among gem collectors and jewellery designers. Its name, derived from the Sinhalese word, "turamali," meaning "stone of many colours," perfectly captures its variety of hues.

Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral; its chemical composition varies widely depending on the presence of different trace elements. This variability gives rise to its remarkable range of colours, with some crystals exhibiting multiple hues within a single gemstone.

We prepare this post which explores what Tourmaline is, how you can identify the different types of Tourmaline, and find out which the rarest colours of Tourmaline are.

General Information About Tourmaline

Tourmalines are minerals with distinct chemical composition and physical properties. However, they all share a common crystal structure, characterised by long, prismatic crystals with a triangular cross-section. Tourmaline is relatively hard, ranking 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewellery.

Tourmaline is the birthstone for October and is also the gem associated with the 8th wedding anniversary. Its vibrant colours and rich symbolism make it a popular choice for jewellery, representing joy, creativity, and spiritual awareness. Tourmalines are believed to promote self-confidence, balance emotions, and enhance inspiration.

Types of Tourmaline

The world of Tourmalines is as diverse as its colours. Let's explore some of the most notable types of Tourmaline, its unique characteristics, and allure.

Paraiba Tourmaline

Paraiba Tourmaline, discovered in the Brazilian state of Paraiba in 1980s, is the rarest and most valuable type of Tourmaline. Its captivating neon blue to green hues are caused by the presence of copper and manganese within its crystal structure. Paraiba Tourmaline is prized for its intense colour saturation and vibrant brilliance, often described as "electric" or "neon." Its rarity and beauty have made it a highly sought-after gem among collectors and jewellery connoisseurs all over the world.

Bicolour, or Parti Tourmaline

Usually displaying a gradient of colours within a single gemstone, bicolour Tourmalines are as rare as they are fascinating. Different trace elements like iron or manganese influence the spectrum of a Tourmaline’s colour. Watermelon Tourmalines, which present pink and green hues, are a type of bicolour Tourmaline.

Indicolite Tourmaline

Indicolite Tourmalines range from violet-blues, to vivid blues, to blue-green varieties of Tourmaline. In the gemstone and jewellery world, it is considered a very rare find.

Rubellite Tourmaline

Rubellite Tourmaline is the pink to red type of Tourmaline, its colour caused by the presence of manganese. The most desirable Rubellite Tourmalines exhibit a vivid, intensely saturated red hue reminiscent of the finest rubies. Rubellite Tourmaline is associated with passion, energy, and vitality, making it a popular choice for those seeking a gemstone that embodies these qualities.

Tourmaline Colour Meaning

Tourmaline's diverse colour palette is matched by its rich symbolism; each hue is believed to possess unique energetic properties and associations. In the past, Tourmaline was revered as a talisman of protection and healing. Today, Tourmaline remains a popular choice for those seeking to connect with its vibrant energy and symbolic meanings.

• Pink Tourmaline: Pink Tourmaline is associated with compassion, emotional healing, and inner peace. It is believed to soothe and promote self-love.. Pink Tourmaline is also said to inspire creativity and artistic expression, encouraging individuals to embrace their emotions. 

• Green Tourmaline: Green Tourmaline is associated with growth, harmony, and prosperity. It is believed to promote abundance, success, and good health, bringing vitality and balance to the wearer's life. Green Tourmaline is also said to enhance communication and foster understanding.

• Blue Tourmaline: Blue Tourmaline is associated with peace, tranquillity, communication, and spiritual awareness. It is believed to soothe the mind, enhance intuition, and promote clear communication. 

• Watermelon Tourmaline: Watermelon Tourmaline, with its unique blend of pink and green, is associated with balance, harmony, and creativity. It is believed to promote emotional healing, enhance self-expression, and foster a sense of joy and optimism. Watermelon Tourmaline is also said to encourage cooperation.

The Structure of Tourmaline's Crystallography

Tourmaline crystals typically form in long, prismatic shapes with a triangular cross-section, their elongated forms resembling shimmering wands or pencils. Their surfaces are often striated, with parallel lines running along the length of the crystal, adding to their visual intrigue.

This unique crystal habit contributes to Tourmaline's pleochroism, a fascinating optical phenomenon in which the gem displays different colours when viewed from different angles. This captivating play of colour adds to Tourmaline's allure, making it a favourite among gem enthusiasts and jewellery designers.

Tourmaline crystals can also exhibit colour zoning, with different colours appearing in distinct bands or zones within the same crystal. This phenomenon, caused by variations in the gem's chemical composition during its formation, creates stunning patterns and colour combinations, making each Tourmaline truly one-of-a-kind.

Caring for Your Tourmaline Jewellery

Tourmaline, with its captivating spectrum of colours and enduring brilliance, deserves proper gemstone care to maintain its beauty for generations to come. To ensure your Tourmaline pieces remain as vibrant and captivating as the day you first acquired them, here are some jewellery care tips:

• Cleaning: Clean your Tourmaline jewellery regularly with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone's delicate surface and dull its lustre.
• Storage: When not being worn, store your Tourmaline jewellery separately from other pieces to prevent scratching. Your B.P. de Silva pouch, or a lined jewellery box is ideal for protecting your Tourmaline from unnecessary contact with other jewels.
• Protection: While Tourmaline is relatively durable, it can be susceptible to chipping or cracking with hard impacts. Avoid wearing your Tourmaline jewellery during strenuous activities or when there's a risk of impact.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Sudden temperature changes can cause Tourmaline to crack or become brittle. Avoid exposing your jewellery to extreme heat or cold, such as direct sunlight or freezing temperatures.

Professional Cleaning: For a thorough cleaning and inspection, consider having your Tourmaline jewellery professionally cleaned by B.P. de Silva Specialists at least once a year. This will help maintain its brilliance and ensure its longevity.