Coming from the Sri Lankan word that translates to mixed stone, which accounts for the wide range of colours available in the tourmaline group. The complexity in colour on each tourmaline gemstone stems from the variety of different chemical properties. Some tourmaline gemstones even come in more than one unique colour.

The beautiful of tourmalines is that their colour can be hugely dependent on the light source that it reflects when finely cut. This means that it can look completely different under different light sources.

Tourmaline gemstones are also commonly used in crystal healing practices and some meditation forms because of the unique electric charge with it’s crystal structure.

Tourmalines and opals are the birthstones of people who were born in October.

Different Types of Tourmalines

There are many different tourmaline variations due to different countries of origin. Due to this, they've been classified based on the species and colour varieties that you can observe with these magnificent crystals.

Red tourmalines have been classified as Rubellite. Rubellites are a beautiful shade of cherry red. They can also be found in a lighter shade of Pink and Orange and these are more common than the Rubellite.

Blue or blue-green tourmalines are called Indicolites, while green tourmalines are called Verdelites. These types are generally sought out because of the vibrance of the colours. Lastly, brown tourmalines are called Dravite, and the black variations are referred to as Schorl.

There are also a few unique tourmalines such as the bi-color tourmaline and the watermelon tourmaline, which is a gorgeous combination between green and red.

The price of each stone differs based on the rarity. Some can be incredibly affordable such as the inexpensive and common black Schorl Tourmaline. However, others are more expensive, such as the Paraiba Tourmaline, with its distinct electric neon green or blue glow which was originally found in the Paraiba mine in Brazil, however, similar material is found in Namibia and Nigeria.

When choosing a tourmaline take into consideration the clarity of the gemstone, the brightness, beautiful polish and the depth of colour to know if you've found the gem that you're looking for.

Where Should You Buy Tourmaline Gemstones

Tallulah carefully sources our tourmaline from Brazil, Afghanistan, Namibia, Nigeria, Congo & Mozambique where most of these beautiful crystals are with each one being carefully extracted ethically to preserve their beauty.

Tourmalines are precious, so you have to make sure that you're getting your tourmaline gemstones and jewellery from a reputable place. Rebecca is a qualified (F.G.A.A) gemmologist, Valuer and diamond grader and is considered an expert in the gem industry.

Contact Tallulah today. You can call us on 0417 534927 (mobile). Please email us at rebecca@tallulah.net.au to arrange an appointment at L1/28 Block Place, Melbourne, Australia and find the gem of your dreams.