Tourmaline, alongside opal, holds the distinction of being a birthstone for October, offering a vibrant and versatile choice for those born in the tenth month. Cherished for its rich history and remarkable range of colors, tourmaline is a gemstone that captivates with its beauty and enduring appeal. The name itself, derived from the Sinhalese word turamali meaning “stone of mixed color,” hints at the gem’s most defining characteristic – its ability to display multiple tones within a single crystal. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of tourmaline, providing a comprehensive overview of this fascinating October birthstone.
History and Lore
The story of tourmaline is one of mistaken identity and eventual recognition. For centuries, tourmaline was often confused with other gemstones, most notably ruby. A particularly striking example of this is the case of the “Caesar’s Ruby,” which was, in fact, red tourmaline. It wasn’t until the 1800s that tourmaline was definitively recognized as a distinct gemstone.
Throughout history, different colors of tourmaline have been attributed specific meanings. Black tourmaline has been traditionally associated with protection, while pink tourmaline is believed to represent love. Green tourmaline is thought to inspire courage. Beyond these general associations, tourmaline has also held cultural significance as a symbol of eternal love and strength, making it a popular choice for celebrating an eighth wedding anniversary. The gem also marks the birthdays of those born on the 12th, 13th, and 14th of October.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tourmaline’s formation is a complex process occurring within igneous and metamorphic rocks. Significant deposits are found in several locations around the world, with Brazil being a particularly prominent source. The Minas Gerais region of Brazil is renowned for its stunning tourmaline specimens.
The late 1980s saw the discovery of vibrant green, blue, and violet tourmalines in the Paraíba State of Brazil. These colors, caused by trace amounts of copper, led to the emergence of the highly sought-after “Paraíba” tourmaline, known for its exceptional brilliance and rarity. This unique variety has also been found in Mozambique and Nigeria.
The United States also has a history of tourmaline mining, with notable locations including Mount Mica in Maine and the Himalaya Mine in California. These mines have historically yielded high-quality tourmalines, even supplying gems to prominent figures like Empress Dowager Cixi of China. While less active today, these locations continue to contribute to the global supply of tourmaline. Other sources include regions of West Africa.
Gemological Properties
Tourmaline exhibits a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. While generally stable, tourmaline can be susceptible to damage from excessive heat.
The gem’s defining characteristic is its pleochroism – the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles. This phenomenon contributes to the gemstone’s vibrant appearance. Tourmaline’s chemical composition is complex, varying depending on the specific type.
Several distinct types of tourmaline are recognized, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Rubellite: Characterized by vivid red and pink hues.
- Paraíba Tourmaline: Highly prized for its intense green and blue colors, attributed to the presence of copper.
- Watermaline: Displays a common color combination of green and pink.
Types of Opal and Their Features
While this article focuses on tourmaline, it is important to acknowledge the other October birthstone, opal. Opals are categorized into several types, each with unique characteristics:
- White Opal: Exhibits light colors with flashes of blue, green, and pink.
- Black Opal: Features vivid flashes of color against a dark background.
- Fire Opal: Displays warm tones of red, orange, and yellow, resembling flames.
- Boulder Opal: Characterized by colorful and patterned stones emerging from within rocks, showcasing a natural matrix.
- Crystal Opal: Transparent, allowing light to enhance its vibrant colors.
- Matrix Opal: Embedded in rocks, displaying a unique matrix pattern.
- Jelly Opal: Transparent with bright colors.
- Ethiopian Opal: Known for its brilliant hues and play of color.
- Mexican Opal: Exhibits diverse colors and transparency with unique qualities.
- Australian Opal: Includes white, black, and boulder opals, mined in areas like Lightning Ridge.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of tourmaline is relatively straightforward. Simple soap and water, along with a soft brush, are sufficient for cleaning. Harsh chemicals should be avoided to prevent damage. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for tourmaline. Opal requires similar care, avoiding harsh chemicals and excessive heat. It is important to note that cracks in opal greatly devalue the stone, while potch lines (without light reflection) are less detrimental and can even contribute to artistic patterns. Clarity in opal ranges from transparent to opaque, with experts valuing different levels of clarity depending on the type.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Historically, opal was imbued with various symbolic meanings. Bedouins believed opal held lightning and fell from the sky during thunderstorms. Ancient Greeks associated opal with prophecy and protection from disease. Europeans considered opal a symbol of purity, hope, and truth. Opal is also traditionally given to celebrate a 14th wedding anniversary.
Conclusion
Tourmaline, the “stone of mixed colors,” is a captivating October birthstone with a rich history, diverse geological origins, and a wide spectrum of colors. From the vibrant hues of Paraíba tourmaline to the protective qualities of black tourmaline, this gemstone offers something for everyone. Its durability and relative ease of care make it a suitable choice for everyday jewelry, while its enduring beauty and symbolic significance ensure its continued appeal for generations to come. Alongside opal, tourmaline provides a stunning and meaningful way to commemorate birthdays in the tenth month.