Gemstone guide
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What is Paraiba Tourmaline?
Paraiba Tourmaline is the paraiba variety of tourmaline, coloured by copper and manganese. A guide to the gem, and to buying one well.
About Paraiba Tourmaline
01- Species
- Tourmaline
- Variety
- Paraiba
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7 - 7.5
- Refractive index
- 1.61 - 1.64
- Colour caused by
- Copper and manganese
Paraiba Tourmaline is a gemstone of extraordinary allure, renowned for its mesmerising hues and captivating brilliance. This rare gem, found in select regions such as Mozambique, Nigeria, Brazil, and other parts of Africa, is celebrated for its vivid blue and green tones, often described as 'neon' or 'vivid'. The unique colouration of Paraiba Tourmaline is primarily due to trace amounts of copper, which endows it with an unparalleled vibrancy.
At STARLANKA, each Paraiba Tourmaline is a singular masterpiece, with origins and any treatments such as heating meticulously disclosed. Our collection features stones that range in clarity from IF to SI-2 and are crafted in exquisite cuts, including Modified Brilliant and Asscher. Many of our stones are accompanied by certificates from esteemed laboratories like GIA, GIT, and GRS, with certification available on request. Prices for these dazzling gems start from around $200 per carat, reflecting their rarity and the meticulous craftsmanship involved.
Judging quality
02What drives the value
- Color intensity
- Clarity
- Size
- Origin
What to watch for when buying
- Overpaying for low-quality stones
- Misunderstanding treatment implications
- Assuming all Paraiba is equally valuable
Inclusions you may see
- Liquid inclusions
- Gas bubbles
- Crystals
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
- $476 per carat
- Most stones
- $194–$2,020 per carat
- Based on
- 376 stones in our stock, updated weekly. Paraiba Tourmaline prices by carat size →
From our stock
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From the journal
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Frequently Asked Questions
07Where do Paraiba Tourmalines originate from?
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Paraiba Tourmalines in our collection originate from regions including Mozambique, Nigeria, Brazil, and other parts of Africa such as Ethiopia and Tanzania.
Are Paraiba Tourmalines treated?
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Paraiba Tourmalines may be heated to enhance their colour, although some stones remain unheated. All treatments are transparently disclosed.
What drives the value of Paraiba Tourmaline?
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The value of Paraiba Tourmaline is driven by its vibrant colour, rarity, clarity, and the quality of the cut. Copper content contributes to its distinctive neon hues.
How should I choose a Paraiba Tourmaline?
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Selecting a Paraiba Tourmaline involves considering its colour intensity, clarity, and cut. Personal preference for origin and whether the stone is heated or unheated may also guide your choice.
Are Paraiba Tourmalines certified?
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Many of our Paraiba Tourmalines come with certificates from reputable laboratories such as GIA, GIT, and GRS. Certification is available on request for any stone.
Shop
Paraiba Tourmaline
Every stone shows its own price, weight, origin and treatment. Browse our paraiba tourmaline, or contact our team for personal help choosing one.