Pink tourmaline is a captivating gemstone, celebrated for its range of delicate hues and its status as the modern October birthstone. While tourmaline itself encompasses a spectrum of colors, the pink variety holds a special place in gemological history and lore. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of pink tourmaline, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The story of pink tourmaline is intertwined with historical misidentification and a relatively recent recognition of its unique value. The name “tourmaline” originates from the Sinhalese word tura mali, meaning “mixed gemstones of many colors,” reflecting the gem’s diverse palette. However, until the 19th century, pink tourmaline was often mistaken for other gemstones, most notably rubies. Accounts detail instances of pink tourmaline being incorporated into significant historical jewelry, such as the Russian Crown Jewels, where it was unknowingly used in place of rubies. These instances were later identified as rubellite tourmalines, a specific red to pink variety.
The formal designation of pink tourmaline as the October birthstone occurred in 1952, following an initial naming of both opal and tourmaline as October birthstones in 1912 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America. Prior to this, garnet held the traditional association with October.
A significant chapter in pink tourmaline’s history unfolded in the late 19th century with discoveries in Mesa Grande, San Diego County, California. Large quantities of pink and red tourmaline were unearthed, initially finding a strong market in China, particularly favored by the Dowager Empress Tz'u Hsi, who commissioned pieces through Tiffany & Co. The Empress was buried with many of her favorite jewels, including a pink tourmaline pillow. Following the Xinhai Revolution, the market for U.S. pink tourmaline collapsed, leading to the failure of many mining operations, though the mines were later reopened.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tourmaline is not a single mineral but a group of closely related mineral species. Pink tourmaline, like other varieties, forms in granite pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks. These pegmatites provide the necessary chemical environment for the growth of tourmaline crystals.
While found globally, tourmaline is predominantly sourced from the Americas. The California deposits at Mesa Grande played a crucial role in the gem’s early commercial history. Other significant sources include Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Pakistan, with some locations renowned for producing particularly vibrant pink hues.
Gemological Properties
Pink tourmaline exhibits a Mohs hardness of 7-7.5, making it relatively durable for jewelry use, though not as resistant to scratching as harder gemstones like sapphire (Mohs 9). The gem’s color can range from a light purplish-pink to a deep fuchsia or magenta. Color depth is considered more important than clarity, with saturated colors commanding the highest prices.
Tourmaline crystals often grow in a flattened form, which influences how they are cut. Gem cutters typically do not fashion pink spinels to standardized sizes, allowing jewelers to leverage their unconventional outlines for unique pieces. Large tourmalines are readily accessible, making them a good choice for those seeking impressively sized gemstones. Some specimens exhibit inclusions that create a cat's eye effect, known as chatoyancy.
The chemical composition of tourmaline is complex, varying depending on the specific species. The presence of manganese is often responsible for the pink coloration.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history and across cultures, pink tourmaline has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. It is often associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. Pink tourmaline is believed to restore relationships, repair broken hearts, and instill a love for humanity. The watermelon tourmaline, displaying both pink and green hues, symbolizes compassion and selflessness.
Some believe tourmaline possesses probiotic powers, aiding digestion and boosting the immune system. The gem is also traditionally given as a 22nd wedding anniversary gift. Rubbing the stone is thought to create an electrical charge.
Care and Cleaning
While relatively durable, pink tourmaline requires careful handling and cleaning. Like other gemstones, it can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as these can damage the gem. Due to its hardness, it is susceptible to scratching if not handled with care.
Other Pink Gemstones
While pink tourmaline is a prominent pink gemstone, several other materials also exhibit this appealing color. These include:
- Pink Spinel: Often valued for its color rather than shape, spinel is a modern August birthstone.
- Pink Topaz: A rare and valuable variety of topaz, contrasting with the more common blue topaz.
- Pink Fluorite: While exhibiting attractive colors, fluorite’s fragility (hardness of 4) limits its use in jewelry.
- Pink Opal: A rare variety of opal that lacks the typical play-of-color, appearing opaque.
- Rhodochrosite: A banded pink gemstone with distinctive patterns.
- Rose Quartz: A classic pink crystal gemstone.
- Pink Garnet: An affordable option that can rival the beauty of pink sapphires or tourmalines.
- Pink Pearls: Relatively soft (hardness 2.5-3) and prone to scratching, pearls are often used in necklaces and earrings.
- Pink Apatite: A collector’s gemstone with limited jewelry applications due to its modest hardness (5).
- Pink Feldspar (Moonstone and Labradorite): These feldspar varieties can occasionally display pink hues.
- Morganite: A pink variety of beryl, known for its pronounced color in larger stones.
- Aventurine ("Strawberry Quartz"): A pink gemstone with a sparkling appeal.
These alternative pink gemstones offer a range of options for those seeking this color in jewelry, each with its own unique properties and characteristics.
Conclusion
Pink tourmaline stands as a captivating gemstone, blending historical intrigue with vibrant color and symbolic meaning. From its past misidentification as ruby to its current status as a beloved October birthstone, pink tourmaline continues to enchant gem enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. Its durability, availability in larger sizes, and association with love and compassion make it a compelling choice for both collectors and those seeking a meaningful piece of jewelry.