Tourmaline is a gemstone celebrated for its diverse range of colors and its reputed metaphysical properties. As the recognized birthstone for October, it holds a special significance for those born in this month. This article will explore the characteristics of tourmaline, its historical context, and the beliefs surrounding its energetic qualities, based on available information.
History and Lore
While a comprehensive historical account of tourmaline is not provided within these sources, it is clear that the stone has been valued for both its aesthetic appeal and its perceived benefits. The sources highlight the stone’s modern association with October as a birthstone. The appreciation of tourmaline extends beyond simple adornment; it is “celebrated not just for its visual appeal but also for its reputed properties.” These properties are linked to harmonizing energies, promoting inner balance, absorbing negativity, boosting creativity, and inspiring positivity.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of tourmaline or specific mining locations beyond the context of where the retailer, Made in Earth, sources its materials. The company operates galleries in San Diego, Los Angeles, and St Kilda, Melbourne, and ships pieces from its Del Mar Gallery. The sources do not provide information on the geological processes involved in tourmaline’s creation or the specific geological environments where it is typically found.
Gemological Properties
The sources emphasize the remarkable color variety of tourmaline. It “showcasing a spectrum of colours, including the famed watermelon, black, and pink varieties.” Beyond color, the sources do not provide specific gemological properties such as chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or crystal structure. The materials available do not allow for a detailed gemological profile. The products offered include raw gemstone necklaces and bracelets, suggesting the stones are often presented in their natural, unpolished state. The bracelets are made with pure copper, while the necklaces offer chain options of sterling silver, gold-filled, rose gold-filled, or stainless steel, with silver/gold/rose gold plating also available. Chain lengths range from 14 to 20 inches, with 14 inches noted as a child’s size.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources strongly emphasize the metaphysical properties attributed to tourmaline. It is “believed to harmonize energies and promote inner balance.” This belief extends to the stone’s capacity to “absorb negativity, boost creativity, and inspire positivity.” These qualities contribute to tourmaline’s appeal as a gemstone for those seeking emotional and spiritual well-being. The sources do not elaborate on the historical origins of these beliefs or how they vary across different cultures.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific guidance on the care and cleaning of tourmaline. However, given that the necklaces are offered with various chain materials (sterling silver, gold-filled, rose gold-filled, stainless steel), standard care practices for those metals would apply. Raw gemstones, as featured in the bracelets and necklaces, may require gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap to avoid damaging the natural surface.
Products Available
The sources showcase a range of products featuring tourmaline and other gemstones. These include raw birthstone wire-wrapped connector bracelets made of pure copper and handmade in India. Raw gemstone necklaces are also available, customizable with the ideal gem for a recipient, accompanied by an inspirational quote card. Additionally, the retailer, Made in Earth, offers tektites like Moldavite and Libyan desert glass, as well as meteorites like Gibeon, Sikhote-Alin, and Muonionalusta.
Ordering and Shipping Information
The retailer offers pickup options at its Central Market store. Orders are typically ready within 24 hours, and quick delivery is available. For online orders, a phone number is requested at checkout. Processing time is 2-3 business days. Shipping is worldwide, with an exception for Succulent Gift Boxes, which are limited to Canada. If a Succulent Gift Box is ordered for shipment outside of the USA or Canada, it will be replaced with a seed kit.
Additional Gemstones Offered
Beyond tourmaline, Made in Earth also features a selection of tektites and meteorites. Tektites include Moldavite and Libyan desert glass, while the meteorite collection comprises Gibeon, Sikhote-Alin, and Muonionalusta. These materials, originating from beyond Earth, add a unique dimension to the retailer’s offerings.
Galleries and Locations
Made in Earth has established a global presence with jewelry galleries in San Diego, Los Angeles, and St Kilda, Melbourne. The Venice Beach gallery is located at 1506 Abbot Kinney Blvd and is open daily from 10:30 am to 8 pm, with extended hours until 8:30 pm on Thursdays through Saturdays. All pieces are shipped from the Del Mar Gallery.
Conclusion
Tourmaline, as presented in these sources, is a captivating gemstone valued for its vibrant colors and perceived metaphysical properties. Its association with October as a birthstone adds to its significance, while its ability to harmonize energies and inspire positivity resonates with those seeking emotional and spiritual well-being. The availability of raw tourmaline pieces, alongside other unique materials like tektites and meteorites, demonstrates a commitment to offering distinctive and meaningful jewelry.