Tourmaline
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a captivating gemstone celebrated for its extraordinary color diversity and complex chemical composition. Its name comes from the Sinhalese word “tōramalli” (ටෝරමල්ලි), which refers to the carnelian gemstones.
Variety and Category
- Mineral Family: Cyclosilicate
- Chemical Formula: (Ca,K,Na)(Al,Fe,Li,Mg,Mn)₃(Al,Cr,Fe,V)₆(BO₃)₃(Si,Al,B)₆O₁₈(OH,F)₄
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Mohs Hardness: 7.0–7.5
Tourmaline’s complex structure allows for a vast array of chemical substitutions, resulting in a multitude of colors and properties.
Color and Value
Tourmaline is renowned for its extensive color spectrum, ranging from colorless to black, with hues of red, pink, green, blue, yellow, and multicolored combinations. This diversity is due to variations in its chemical composition during formation.
The value of tourmaline depends on several factors:
- Color: Vivid, saturated colors are more valuable.
- Clarity: Stones with fewer inclusions command higher prices.
- Cut: Precision in cutting enhances brilliance and color display.
- Carat Weight: Larger stones are rarer and thus more valuable.
Certain varieties, like Paraíba tourmaline with its neon blue-green hue, are exceptionally rare and highly prized.
Common Cuts and Applications of Tourmaline
Tourmaline’s versatility allows it to be fashioned into various cuts, including oval, emerald, cushion, and pear shapes. Its hardness and vibrant colors make it suitable for all types of jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
Sri Lankan Uniqueness
Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, has been a notable source of high-quality tourmaline gemstones. The country’s gem-rich regions, particularly around Ratnapura, have yielded tourmalines celebrated for their exceptional clarity and vibrant colors. Sri Lankan tourmalines are esteemed in the global gemstone market for their superior quality and natural beauty.
At Luxiris Gems (PVT) Ltd., we take immense pride in offering authentic Sri Lankan tourmalines, each meticulously selected for its exceptional beauty and quality. Our commitment to ethical sourcing and excellence ensures that our clients receive gemstones that are not only stunning but also steeped in the rich heritage of Sri Lanka’s gemological legacy. Gems are a great investment. Contact us to get your gemstone.
