Lietuviškai
EspañolTourmaline is a beautiful and unique mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, making it one of the most popular gemstones on the market today. From deep greens to vibrant pinks and blues, tourmaline can be found in almost every color imaginable. The origin of the word “tourmaline” is the Sinhala (Sri Lankan) word turmali, meaning “multicolored.”
One of the most interesting things about tourmaline is that it can be found in a wide variety of locations around the world. Some of the most famous tourmaline mines include Brazil, Africa, and the United States. In fact, the state of Maine is known for producing some of the most beautiful green tourmaline in the world.
Colors of Tourmaline
One of the most variegated gemstones: found in all colors, however the most popular are red, green and multicolored ones. It has pyroelectric, thermoelectric and piezoelectric properties. Tourmaline is a member of the silicate mineral group, which also includes quartz and feldspar. It is formed by the combination of elements such as aluminum, iron, and lithium, which give it its wide range of colors. The different colors of tourmaline are actually caused by different trace elements that are present during its formation. For example, iron and titanium can give tourmaline a deep red or pink color, while manganese can produce a deep green.
You can change the color during heating (greenish hues darken, brownish red turn to a more defined red, pinkish hues become colorless).
All varieties of tourmaline are more or less characterized by pleochroism (this is the dependence of the color of the material on the direction and polarization of the light wave propagating in it; it is of different colors when viewed in a crystal illuminated by white light).
Tourmaline crystals are prismatic (with striped walls), punched, needles up to 40 cm. in length. They tend to be glassy in their gloss. But there’s more to tourmaline: the rainbow gemstone than just its stunning appearance and immense color spectrum.
Widespread in granites, pegmatites; some strains of tourmaline are found in metamorphic rocks. The most widely used elbaite – red, green, multicolored; pink and green tourmaline, properly sanded, can have a cats eye effect.
Tourmaline: the rainbow gemstone, a stone for those born in October.
The stone is very colorful; the Egyptians thought this was because the stone “traveled” from the center of the Earth through the rainbow; in some countries people stone and call tourmalines “rainbow gems”.
For centuries, the stone has been a sign of miraculous love and friendship. Tourmaline is the cornerstone of the eighth anniversary of marriage.
Tourmaline is also a durable gemstone, making it a popular choice for jewelry. It has a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it can stand up to everyday wear and tear. It’s also a popular choice for rings, earrings, and other jewelry that is worn daily.
But tourmaline isn’t just a pretty gemstone. It’s also been said to have healing properties. Some people believe that tourmaline can help to balance the body’s energy and promote a sense of well-being. Additionally, it is said to have a grounding effect and can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Here at YURGA we adore the different colors and moods that tourmalines are imbued with, and we are very happy with every single new design of our handcrafted gold jewelry that incorporates this wonderful gemstone. Every color of tourmaline gives a unique style and personality to every piece of jewelry, whether it’s a bold ring, a delicate necklace, or a pair of earrings.
Whether you’re drawn to tourmaline’s stunning range of colors, its durability, or its alleged healing properties, there’s no denying that this gemstone is truly unique and special. And, the next time you come across a tourmaline, whether in a jewelry store or on a hike, take a moment to appreciate the natural wonder that is this gemstone.
