Tourmaline is recognized as a significant gemstone, prominently featured as the birthstone for October. Celebrated for its diverse color palette and purported healing properties, tourmaline holds a unique place in both gemological history and contemporary jewelry. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological characteristics, symbolism, and care of this fascinating gemstone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Tourmaline boasts a rich history, with evidence of its appreciation dating back centuries. While specific origins are not detailed in the provided sources, the gem’s allure is evident in historical accounts. The last empress of the Chi’ing Dynasty in China was known to be a passionate collector of tourmaline, particularly favoring vivid pink and magenta hues. She was even laid to rest upon a tourmaline pillow, demonstrating the stone’s high esteem within the imperial court.
More recently, tourmaline has gained recognition for its unique properties beyond aesthetics. Some tourmaline varieties exhibit piezoelectricity – the ability to generate an electrical charge when subjected to pressure. This property has been harnessed for practical applications, notably in the creation of pressure gauges for submarines.
The sources highlight tourmaline’s enduring symbolic associations. It is widely believed to increase understanding and empathy, while simultaneously warding off negative energy and emotion. Modern interpretations continue to emphasize these qualities, positioning tourmaline as a stone of love, compassion, and healing. It is also associated with good fortune, wealth, and success.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources indicate that tourmaline exhibits an exceptional range of colors, from vivid greens and blues to pinks, reds, and even black. A particularly rare and prized variety, known as Paraíba tourmaline, originates from Brazil and displays intense shades of violet-blue and blue-green due to its copper content. The “watermelon” tourmaline, displaying both pink and green hues, is another notable variation.
While the sources do not provide extensive details on the geological formation of tourmaline, they do confirm its occurrence in various locations. Brazil is specifically mentioned as a source of Paraíba tourmaline. The sources do not detail other mining locations.
Gemological Properties
Tourmaline’s gemological properties contribute to its appeal and durability. It is rated between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This places it as more susceptible to damage compared to harder gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and diamonds, necessitating careful handling and maintenance.
The sources mention tourmaline’s availability in various forms, including crystal chip beads and solitaire settings. Bead sizes vary, with examples including 3.0mm created gemstones and 3mm solitaire stones. Bracelet lengths are typically adjustable, ranging from approximately 17cm to 22cm (7” to 8.5”) for chip bracelets, and 6.5 inches with a 1.5-inch extender for solitaire bracelets.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties based on the provided sources:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7 – 7.5 |
| Forms | Crystal Chip, Solitaire |
| Bracelet Length | 17-22cm (Chip) |
| 6.5” + 1.5” Extender (Solitaire) | |
| Materials | Sterling Silver, Natural Gemstones |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tourmaline is deeply embedded in symbolism and metaphysical beliefs. It is considered a powerful healer, capable of balancing the body and spirit, protecting against negative energies, and restoring physical and emotional well-being. The stone is believed to aid in grounding, relaxation, and energy healing, offering relief from stress, depression, and anxiety.
The association with love, compassion, and healing is particularly strong, making pink tourmaline a popular choice for those seeking emotional balance and connection. It is also seen as a symbol of hope, innocence, and creativity. The sources emphasize that tourmaline can promote mental alertness and relieve stress.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, tourmaline requires careful handling to prevent damage. It is recommended to have tourmaline jewelry professionally checked and cleaned at least twice a year to ensure the security of the stones and maintain their brilliance.
For at-home cleaning, warm soapy water and a soft brush are recommended. However, specific cautions apply to opals, another October birthstone, which can dry out and craze if stored in metal containers. The sources do not provide specific storage recommendations for tourmaline, but avoiding extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals is generally advisable.
Bracelet Styles and Craftsmanship
The sources showcase tourmaline bracelets crafted in various styles. Kuka London specializes in tourmaline crystal chip bracelets combined with 925 sterling silver beads, handmade in the UK. SophieJean Jewellery offers pink tourmaline gemstone bracelets made with 2mm 925 sterling silver beads and 3mm semi-precious gemstones, strung on high-quality stretch elastic. Honey Willow presents dainty silver bracelets featuring a single pink tourmaline solitaire, handmade in Bath, England. POP Diamond Jewelry features a 3.0mm created gemstone set in a sterling silver bezel, guaranteed not to break, stretch, or fade. These examples demonstrate the versatility of tourmaline in bracelet design, ranging from casual chip bracelets to elegant solitaire pieces.
Conclusion
Tourmaline stands as a captivating gemstone, celebrated for its vibrant colors, diverse forms, and rich symbolism. As the birthstone for October, it embodies qualities of love, healing, and protection. From its historical significance in imperial China to its modern applications in technology and jewelry, tourmaline continues to fascinate and inspire. Its relatively moderate hardness necessitates careful handling, but with proper care, tourmaline jewelry can be cherished for generations. The stone’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect wearers with a sense of well-being, positive energy, and timeless beauty.