Tourmaline is a gemstone celebrated for its remarkable range of colors, earning it the title of the “birthstone of many colors” and a prominent place as an October birthstone alongside opal. The name itself originates from the Sinhalese word “turmali,” meaning “something out of the earth,” a fitting description for a gem with such diverse origins and a captivating history. This article will explore the history, geological sources, gemological properties, and cultural significance of tourmaline, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The story of tourmaline is one of mistaken identity and eventual recognition. First discovered in the 1500s in Brazil, early examples of green tourmaline were often confused with emeralds. Similarly, pink and red varieties were frequently mistaken for rubies, a misidentification that persisted for centuries. Notably, the rubies adorning the Russian crown jewels are now believed to be, in fact, tourmaline, distinguished from true rubies by a pinker tone and greater rarity. It wasn’t until the 19th century that tourmaline was formally recognized as a distinct mineral species.
Ancient legends contribute to the gem’s mystique. One tale recounts that tourmaline gained its vibrant colors by traveling up from the earth’s core through a rainbow. This belief, shared with the lore surrounding opal, explains the gem’s kaleidoscopic hues. Ancient Greeks believed opals bestowed the gift of prophecy and protection from disease, while Bedouins thought opals held lightning and fell from the sky during thunderstorms. While these beliefs are specifically attributed to opal, the shared rainbow origin story suggests a similar reverence for tourmaline’s colorful nature in ancient cultures.
In the United States, tourmaline’s history is particularly notable in Maine. The gem was first discovered in 1820 on Mt. Mica in Paris, Maine, coinciding with the state’s entry into the Union. This discovery led to tourmaline being known as the “American Gem.” A significant find occurred in 1972 on Plumbago Mountain in Newry, Maine, yielding 3 ½ million carats of gem-quality tourmaline – the largest gem find in North America and the reason for tourmaline being designated the “Maine State Gemstone.”
Geological Formation and Sources
Tourmaline’s formation occurs in a variety of geological environments, most commonly within pegmatites – subterranean intrusions of magma rich in rare elements. These pegmatites are found in various locations worldwide, contributing to the gem’s diverse origins. Brazil has long been a major source of tourmaline, particularly from the state of Minas Gerais.
More recently, significant deposits of copper-bearing tourmaline, known as Paraíba-type tourmaline, were discovered in Brazil’s Paraíba State in the late 1980s. The intense electric green, blue, and violet colors of these stones are attributed to trace amounts of copper, a coloring agent previously unknown in tourmaline. In the early 2000s, similar Paraíba-type tourmalines were found in Mozambique and Nigeria, further expanding the gem’s geographic distribution. The vivid hues, high color saturation, and rarity of these Paraíba and Paraíba-type tourmalines command premium prices in the market.
Beyond Brazil, Africa, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kenya, and Madagascar are also important sources of tourmaline. Within the United States, both Southern California and Maine host pegmatite districts that have historically yielded significant quantities of the gem.
Gemological Properties
Tourmaline is known for its exceptional color range, encompassing every hue of the rainbow. This variety stems from the presence of different trace elements within its chemical makeup. The gem typically rates between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. It exhibits good stability in light and resistance to most chemicals, though it can be damaged by excessive heat.
Cleaning tourmaline is straightforward: warm, soapy water and a soft brush are sufficient to maintain its brilliance. The gem’s color depends on its chemical composition, with trace elements playing a crucial role in determining its hue. The discovery of copper-bearing tourmaline in Paraíba, Brazil, demonstrated that even previously unknown elements could dramatically influence the gem’s color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
While sources do not explicitly detail specific symbolic meanings associated with tourmaline across different cultures, its association with rainbows and its diverse colors suggest a connection to positivity, vibrancy, and the full spectrum of human emotions. The historical confusion with rubies and emeralds may have also imbued tourmaline with some of the symbolism associated with those stones – rubies representing passion and courage, and emeralds symbolizing rebirth and growth.
Care and Cleaning
Tourmaline’s hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale makes it durable enough for everyday wear. However, it is still susceptible to damage from heat and certain chemicals. To maintain its brilliance, tourmaline should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the gem.
Conclusion
Tourmaline stands as a testament to the beauty and complexity of the natural world. From its origins shrouded in ancient legends to its modern-day status as a beloved birthstone and a prized gem for collectors, tourmaline’s journey is a captivating one. Its remarkable range of colors, coupled with its unique geological formation and historical significance, ensures its continued appeal for generations to come. As an October birthstone, tourmaline offers a vibrant and diverse option for those celebrating a birthday in the tenth month, embodying a spectrum of possibilities and a connection to the earth’s hidden treasures.