LEARN MORE ABOUT PARAIBA TOURMALINE
The name of this vibrant gemstone is derived from a Singhalese word ‘Turmali’.Tourmaline stone meaning happens to be a stone of many colors. It is well-suited to the properties and beauty of this gem. It has a unique neon shade ranging from blue to green and violet. The color of this stone is caused by a combination of manganese and copper in its composition.
Gemstone Attributes
| Mineral | Tourmaline (Elbaite) |
|---|---|
| Chemistry | Na(Li1.5,Al1.5)Al6Si6O18(BO3)3(OH)4 |
| Color | Green - Blue |
| Refractive Index | 1.624 - 1.644 |
| Birefringence | 0.018 - 0.040 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.06 |
| Mohs Hardness | 7.0 - 7.5 |
PARAIBA Value
When buying Paraiba tourmaline, you should lay more emphasis on the colour than the clarity of the gem. The difference in prices can happen due to the eye visible inclusions found in the natural varieties. You can shop online for finding the best stone for you.
The value of this stone is determined according to the purity and quality. It is a rare gemstone which is hard to be replicated in a lab. Therefore, natural tourmaline commands a higher price when compared to its artificial and rough imitation. Paraiba tourmaline price per carat is generally high for the deep blue and green colors having strong saturation along with a medium tone. It ranges from light to medium dark tones with high prices garnered for mid range stones as according to GIA
Paraiba Sources
Paraiba were only found in Brazil until the 2007 when a new mine of Copper Bearing Tourmaline was found in Mozambique, Africa. After few years the new Paraiba Tourmaline from Africa was also considered as Paraiba.
- Brazil
- Mozambique, Africa
TOURMALINE Properties
The most common noticeable properties that help gem dealers identify tourmaline will be the Double Refraction effect in Tourmalines which are specific to tourmaline gemstones.
PARAIBA SPECIALITY
Tourmaline stone offers a vivid color palette which is hard to be replicated in any other gemstone. The discovery of this stone in an isolated region of Paraiba state in Brazil completely transformed its sale and value for its Neon Blue Color.
Tourmaline Care
Tourmaline jewelry are very durable for everyday wear but should be worn with caution as a drop on concrete may cause physical damage to the stone.
Clean your Tourmaline jewelry with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid mechanical cleaning, as it can shatter the stones. If you are unsure, then take your Tourmaline to be professionally cleaned.