Gemstone guide
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What is Chrome Tourmaline?
Chrome Tourmaline is a variety of tourmaline, coloured by presence of chromium. A guide to the gem, and to buying one well.
About Chrome Tourmaline
01- Species
- Tourmaline
- Variety
- Chrome Tourmaline
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7-7.5
- Refractive index
- 1.62-1.64
- Colour caused by
- Presence of chromium
Chrome Tourmaline is a mesmerising gemstone, celebrated for its vibrant hues and exceptional clarity. This exquisite stone, primarily sourced from the verdant landscapes of Africa, notably Tanzania, Mozambique, and Zambia, captivates with its lush green and yellow tones. The allure of Chrome Tourmaline lies in its rich colour, which is a result of the presence of chromium—a rare and valuable element that imparts an intense, vivid green to the stone.
Each Chrome Tourmaline is unique, with many stones remaining unheated to preserve their natural beauty, while some may undergo clarity enhancement to accentuate their pristine appearance. With prices starting from around $120 per carat, these gems are a testament to nature's artistry, meticulously crafted into fine step cuts, modified brilliant cuts, and more. Many of our stones are accompanied by a GIA laboratory certificate, ensuring their authenticity and quality, with additional certification available upon request.
Judging quality
02What drives the value
- Vivid green color
- Size (carat weight)
- Clarity (VS to VVS)
What to watch for when buying
- Overpaying for clarity enhancements that are not disclosed
- Assuming all green tourmalines are chrome tourmaline
Origin, treatment and trade names
03Where it comes from
TreatmentAs disclosed for the stones we sell; every listing states its own.
Trade names
Price per carat
04- Typical price
- $370 per carat
- Most stones
- $158–$1,310 per carat
- Based on
- 140 stones in our stock, updated weekly. Chrome Tourmaline prices by carat size →
From our stock
05
From the journal
06
Frequently Asked Questions
07Where do Chrome Tourmalines come from?
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Chrome Tourmalines are primarily sourced from Africa, with notable origins in Tanzania, Mozambique, and Zambia.
Are Chrome Tourmalines treated?
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Many Chrome Tourmalines are unheated, though some may undergo clarity enhancement to enhance their natural beauty.
What determines the value of Chrome Tourmaline?
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The value of Chrome Tourmaline is driven by its vivid colour, clarity, and cut, with chromium contributing to its intense green hue.
How should I choose a Chrome Tourmaline?
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When selecting a Chrome Tourmaline, consider the richness of its colour, clarity, and the precision of its cut. Each stone is unique, so choose one that resonates with your personal style.
Are Chrome Tourmalines certified?
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Many Chrome Tourmalines come with a GIA laboratory certificate, and certification is available on request for any stone.
Shop
Chrome Tourmaline
Every stone shows its own price, weight, origin and treatment. Browse our chrome tourmaline, or contact our team for personal help choosing one.