Tourmaline stands as a prominent birthstone for October, celebrated for its remarkable diversity in color and captivating history. Often referred to as the “king of colors,” this gemstone presents a spectrum of hues, ranging from delicate pinks and vibrant greens to deep blues and purples, and even exhibiting multiple colors within a single stone. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and practical care of tourmaline, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The name “tourmaline” originates from the Sri Lankan Sinhalese word “turamali,” meaning “stone with mixed colors.” This etymology immediately highlights the gem’s defining characteristic. While its modern recognition as a distinct mineral species dates back to the 1800s, tourmaline’s history is marked by frequent misidentification with other gemstones due to its wide color range. For example, a red tourmaline, known as rubellite, was once believed to be ruby and featured prominently in the Russian crown jewels as “Caesar’s Ruby.” Similarly, green tourmaline crystals discovered in Brazil during the 1500s were initially mistaken for emeralds.
The gemstone’s appeal extends beyond its aesthetic qualities. In ancient times, mystics believed tourmaline could inspire artistic expression, likely due to its varied and inspiring colors. More recently, in the late 19th century, the Chinese Empress Dowager Tzu-Hsi developed a significant fondness for pink tourmaline, acquiring nearly the entire production from a California mine. Her devotion continued even after her death, as she was buried with a pink tourmaline pillow, and the remainder of her collection was crafted into intricate carvings.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tourmaline forms in distinctive prism-like crystals with long hexagonal structures. These crystals exhibit remarkable beauty when exposed to light. The gemstone’s composition includes a variety of elements, with most jewelry-quality tourmalines consisting primarily of the mineral elbaite.
While tourmaline is found in various locations globally, specific regions are renowned for particular colors and varieties. Mexico is a significant source of fire opal, a type of tourmaline displaying vibrant red, orange, or yellow backgrounds. These opals emerged as a prominent market presence in the mid-nineteenth century, though availability remains limited. Brazil is also a notable source, with green tourmaline crystals being discovered there as early as the 1500s. California also played a role in tourmaline’s history, becoming a key supplier for Empress Dowager Tzu-Hsi’s collection.
Gemological Properties
Tourmaline exhibits a Mohs hardness ranging from 7 to 7.5, indicating good durability and making it suitable for various jewelry applications. This hardness level signifies that tourmaline is resistant to scratching from everyday wear. The gemstone’s versatility is further enhanced by its wide range of colors. Pink tourmaline, a particularly popular variety, is often associated with love due to its soft, sweet hue. Paraiba tourmaline, however, represents the rarest and most valuable member of the tourmaline family, distinguished by its striking neon blue or green coloration.
Tourmaline can also display a phenomenon known as chatoyancy, often described as a “cat-eye” effect, when held to the light. Some tourmaline crystals even exhibit multiple colors within a single stone, exemplified by watermelon tourmaline, which displays both pink and green hues. This unique characteristic reinforces the gemstone’s reputation as a “stone of mixed colors.”
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mohs Hardness | 7 - 7.5 |
| Composition | Elbaite |
| Notable Colors | Pink, Green, Blue, Purple, Red |
| Special Effects | Chatoyancy, Multi-Coloration |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history and across cultures, tourmaline has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Pink tourmaline is often associated with compassion, gentleness, and the restoration of relationships. It is believed to instill a love for humanity and aid in healing broken hearts. Black tourmaline is thought to protect the wearer from negativity and enhance self-confidence. Green tourmaline is believed to promote courage, strength, and stamina.
Some modern sources suggest that tourmaline possesses probiotic powers, aiding digestion and boosting the immune system, though this claim is not widely accepted in formal gemology. The eighth wedding anniversary is traditionally celebrated with tourmaline, signifying its enduring qualities and symbolic significance.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, tourmaline is relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance and beauty. Tourmaline should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. It is also advisable to store tourmaline jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Conclusion
Tourmaline, with its captivating array of colors and rich history, remains a highly prized gemstone. From its origins as a misidentified stone to its modern status as a beloved birthstone for October, tourmaline continues to fascinate and inspire. Its durability, combined with its diverse symbolism and aesthetic appeal, ensures its enduring popularity among gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. The gemstone’s ability to embody a spectrum of hues truly earns it the title of “stone of mixed colors,” making it a unique and cherished addition to any collection.