Birthstones, as precious colored stones, hold a symbolic affiliation with our birth month, believed to bestow fortunes and fortitude upon those born within that time. Among these captivating gems, tourmaline stands out for its remarkable versatility and dazzling array of colors, earning its place as the celebrated birthstone for October. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of tourmaline, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The name “tourmaline” originates from the Sinhalese words Tura mali, meaning “a stone with mixed colors,” a fitting description for a gem that exhibits an unparalleled spectrum of hues. While the modern association of tourmaline with October is relatively recent, formalized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers, the gem’s history extends back centuries. The sources do not detail ancient uses beyond noting its presence in various geographies for centuries. However, the gem’s vibrant colors have consistently imbued it with symbolic meaning.
Specifically, the rosy, pink-hued tourmaline is most popular and celebrated as the October birthstone, and is also a traditional gift to commemorate the 8th wedding anniversary. The gemstone is said to bestow artistic prowess and heightened emotional receptiveness upon its wearer. This connection to creativity and emotion suggests a long-held belief in the gem’s ability to influence inner states.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tourmaline is not typically found as large, single crystals. Instead, it commonly occurs in long, hexagon-shaped pencils in its natural form. The gem’s formation involves complex geological processes, and it can be found in a variety of environments. While Brazil has been a crucial producer of tourmaline for centuries, the gem is also mined in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kenya, Madagascar in Africa, and even within the United States, specifically in California and Maine. This widespread distribution contributes to the gem’s availability in a range of colors and qualities.
Gemological Properties
Tourmaline exhibits a hardness ranging from seven and a half to eight on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear and relatively resistant to scratching. This durability is a key factor in its popularity for jewelry. The gem’s defining characteristic, however, is its pleochroism – the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles. This phenomenon contributes to the gem’s vibrant appearance and internal fire.
The sources do not provide a chemical formula or refractive index for tourmaline. However, they emphasize the gem’s remarkable color range, almost resembling a rainbow. While many colors exist, pink tourmaline is particularly celebrated as the October birthstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The pink tourmaline, specifically, embodies love, compassion, and gentleness for those born in October. Beyond this specific association, the sources mention broader beliefs surrounding gemstones. Some ancient cultures believed that certain stones, like bloodstone (another birthstone discussed in the sources), possessed healing powers or could provide strength and even invisibility. While these beliefs are not specifically attributed to tourmaline within the provided materials, they illustrate a historical tendency to imbue gemstones with metaphysical properties.
The sources also mention other birthstones and their associated beliefs. For example, emeralds were believed to enhance intelligence and cure diseases, while diamonds were thought to bestow beauty, happiness, strength, and longevity. These historical perceptions highlight the enduring human fascination with the symbolic power of gemstones.
Other Notable Birthstones
The provided sources also offer insights into other birthstones, though the focus remains on tourmaline. Diamonds, for instance, are described as “unbreakable” (from the Greek Adamas) and have been prized by royalty and the wealthy for centuries. They are a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts. Emeralds, known for their rich green hue, were believed to relieve eye strain and stress, a belief supported by the calming effect of the color green.
Bloodstone, a variety of cryptocrystalline quartz, is an opaque green stone with red spots of iron oxides. Historically, it was linked to religious beliefs, with the red spots representing the blood of Christ. It was also believed to provide health, youth, strength, and luck.
Citrine, a yellow variety of quartz, is another November birthstone alongside topaz.
Care and Cleaning
While tourmaline is relatively durable, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, it is still susceptible to damage. The sources recommend storing tourmaline in a soft fabric to prevent scratches. Specific cleaning instructions are not provided, but general gemstone care guidelines – such as avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners – would be prudent.
Diamonds: A Comparison
Diamonds, as the April birthstone, represent a contrasting gemological profile. With a perfect hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, diamonds are exceptionally durable and resistant to scratching. They are mined in South Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, Australia, and Canada. Diamonds are also known for their brilliance and fire, qualities that have made them highly sought after for centuries. The sources highlight the historical use of diamonds by royalty and their enduring popularity for engagement rings and anniversary gifts.
Emeralds: A Green Alternative
Emeralds, the May birthstone, offer a vibrant green alternative. With a hardness of 7-7.5, they are less durable than diamonds but still suitable for jewelry. The sources note that emeralds were believed to enhance intelligence and cure diseases, reflecting a historical association with healing and well-being. Their name, derived from the Greek word smaragdos meaning “green gem,” underscores their defining characteristic.
Conclusion
Tourmaline, with its captivating array of colors and rich symbolism, rightfully holds its place as the October birthstone. From the Sinhalese origins of its name to its modern association with artistic expression and emotional receptiveness, this gem has captivated people for centuries. Its geological origins span continents, and its durability makes it a practical choice for everyday wear. While the provided sources offer a glimpse into the world of birthstones, highlighting the unique properties and historical significance of tourmaline, diamonds, emeralds, and others, they underscore the enduring human fascination with these beautiful and enigmatic gifts of the earth.