Tourmaline is a gemstone often overlooked, overshadowed by more traditionally celebrated gems. However, this remarkable mineral boasts a stunning array of colors and a fascinating history, making it a worthy focus for gemstone enthusiasts. As one of the birthstones for October, alongside opal, tourmaline deserves recognition for its beauty, durability, and complex geological origins. This article will delve into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, and symbolism surrounding this captivating gemstone, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The earliest recorded instance of tourmaline dates back to the 1500s in Brazil, where a Spanish conquistador mistakenly identified the vivid green variety as emerald. This misidentification persisted for centuries, not being corrected until the 1800s when tourmaline was formally recognized as a distinct mineral species. Prior to this formal recognition, a stone’s identity was largely based on its color, leading to frequent misclassifications as ruby, sapphire, or emerald.
The name “tourmaline” itself originates from the Sinhalese word toramalli, meaning “mixed gems.” This name was adopted by Dutch merchants who encountered multicolored, water-worn pebbles in the gem gravels of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). These pebbles, brought to Europe by the Dutch East India Company, fueled the growing demand for gemstones. It wasn’t until the 19th century that scientists were able to definitively classify tourmaline as a unique mineral.
Geological Formation and Sources
While specific details regarding tourmaline’s geological formation are limited within the provided sources, it is clear that the gem originates from various locations around the globe. The initial discovery in Brazil is noted, and Sri Lanka is highlighted as a historical source of multicolored tourmaline pebbles. The sources do not provide a comprehensive list of mining locations, but mention Brazil and Africa as sources of vanadium-rich chrome tourmaline, which mimics the color of emeralds.
Gemological Properties
Tourmaline exhibits a Mohs hardness ranging from 7 to 7.5, making it sufficiently durable for use in all types of jewelry. This hardness indicates a good resistance to scratching and abrasion, suitable for everyday wear. The defining characteristic of tourmaline, however, is its exceptional range of colors.
Numerous color varieties have inspired trade names, reflecting the gem’s diverse palette:
- Rubellite: Encompasses pink, red, purplish-red, orangy-red, or brownish-red hues. Debate exists within the trade regarding whether all pink tourmaline should be classified as rubellite.
- Indicolite: Displays dark violetish-blue, blue, or greenish-blue shades.
- Paraíba: Represents an intense violetish-blue, greenish-blue, or blue tourmaline originating from the state of Paraíba, Brazil.
- Chrome Tourmaline: Exhibits an intense green color, primarily colored by vanadium, similar to many Brazilian and African emeralds.
- Parti-colored Tourmaline: Features more than one color within a single stone, with green and pink being a common combination. Varieties like “watermelon” and Liddicoatite fall into this category.
Beyond its vibrant colors, tourmaline can also exhibit unique optical phenomena. Some stones display chatoyancy, a cat’s-eye effect, most often seen in green, blue, or pink varieties. The “eye” in these stones tends to be softer and more diffused compared to other cat’s-eye gems, due to the larger, more numerous inclusions within the tourmaline. To best showcase this effect, tourmaline is typically cut en cabochon.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The provided sources do not detail extensive historical or cultural symbolism associated with tourmaline. However, the gem’s diverse colors naturally lend themselves to varied interpretations. The association of specific colors with particular meanings – red with passion, blue with tranquility, green with growth – is a common practice in gemology, and likely applies to tourmaline as well.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for tourmaline. However, given its Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5, it is reasonable to assume that tourmaline is relatively durable and can withstand normal wear. Standard jewelry cleaning practices, such as using warm soapy water and a soft brush, would likely be suitable. Avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners is generally recommended for most gemstones.
Notable Diamonds and Related Information
While the primary focus is tourmaline, the provided sources also contain information on other gemstones, including diamonds. The Black Orlov, a 67.50-carat black diamond, is mentioned alongside a legend of a curse associated with its history. The Tavernier Blue, the original diamond from which the Hope Diamond and the French Blue originated, is also discussed, highlighting its historical significance and unique Type IIb classification (containing boron). The Tiffany Yellow Diamond, one of the largest yellow diamonds ever discovered, is detailed, including its discovery in South Africa and its iconic setting as "Bird on the Rock." Information on white and brown diamonds is also included, detailing their formation and historical perception.
Diamond Color Variations
The sources also briefly touch upon the nuances of diamond color. "Fancy white" diamonds are described as having a milky appearance due to microscopic inclusions, while brown diamonds, once considered less desirable, have gained popularity with descriptive names like "cognac" and "champagne." The sources clarify that both brown and pink diamonds owe their color to internal graining, with nitrogen contributing to brownish-yellow hues.
Conclusion
Tourmaline, with its captivating array of colors and rich history, is a gemstone deserving of greater recognition. From its initial misidentification as emerald to its eventual classification as a unique mineral species, tourmaline’s journey reflects the evolving understanding of gemology. Its durability, coupled with its stunning visual appeal, makes it a versatile choice for jewelry. While the provided sources offer a glimpse into the world of tourmaline, further research would undoubtedly reveal even more about this fascinating and multifaceted gem.