Tourmaline properties

Tourmaline

The term "tourmaline" actually refers to a group of minerals belonging to the complex silicate family, specifically cyclosilicates. This crystal is distinguished by its unique crystalline structure, composed of elongated prisms with a typically triangular cross-section featuring slightly curved faces. This distinctive geometry gives it an immediately recognizable appearance.

The name "tourmaline" originates from the Sinhalese language (spoken in Sri Lanka), where thuramali or thoramalli means "stone of mixed colors." This name perfectly reflects the extraordinary chromatic diversity of this mineral, which can exhibit almost every hue in the visible spectrum:

• Black tourmaline (schorl): The most common variety, rich in iron, opaque, and highly durable.
• Pink to red tourmaline (rubellite): Its color is due to the presence of manganese.
• Green tourmaline (verdelite): Its hue comes from traces of chromium or vanadium.
• Blue tourmaline (indicolite): A rare and highly sought-after variety.
• Yellow tourmaline (dravite): Typically rich in magnesium.
• Colorless tourmaline (achroite): Extremely rare.
• Bicolored or multicolored tourmaline: Some stones display multiple colors, such as watermelon tourmaline, which has a pink core surrounded by a green border.

The color of tourmaline depends on the chemical elements present during its formation. Natural irradiation from gamma rays emitted by granite can also modify or intensify certain shades, particularly pink and red hues.

Tourmaline possesses remarkable physical characteristics, making it a prized stone in both jewelry and mineral collections. With a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, it is relatively resistant to scratches and everyday wear. This durability allows it to be set in rings, pendants, or bracelets without excessive risk of damage. Its density ranges from 3.0 to 3.2, depending on its chemical composition. Some varieties, richer in iron or manganese, may be slightly heavier than others.

A distinctive feature of tourmaline is its pronounced pleochroism, an optical phenomenon that causes it to display different color intensities depending on the viewing angle and light source. A blue tourmaline, for example, may appear darker, lighter, or even slightly greenish from different angles. This property is highly valued in gemology, as it gives each stone a unique depth and richness of color.

Tourmaline has a conchoidal to irregular fracture, meaning it lacks distinct cleavage, unlike stones such as topaz or fluorite. This makes it more resistant to breakage upon impact, though it should still be handled carefully to prevent internal fractures.

One of tourmaline’s most fascinating characteristics is its pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties:

• Pyroelectricity: When heated, it generates opposite electric charges at its ends, attracting dust and small lightweight objects.
• Piezoelectricity: When subjected to pressure, it produces an electric current, a property it shares with quartz.

These electromagnetic properties have led to its use in measuring instruments, pressure sensors, and even modern technological applications for energy conversion.

Thanks to its beauty and numerous properties, tourmaline is a gemstone that is both aesthetically captivating and functionally valuable, finding applications in both jewelry and science.

Mines: Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil, Russia, Thailand, Angola, Burma, Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, India, Italy, Elbe Island, the USA.

History, legends and beliefs about tourmaline

In Sri Lanka, where tourmaline has been mined since antiquity, a legend tells of this semi-precious stone falling from the sky. During its descent, it is said to have passed through a rainbow, imbuing it with its countless hues. This celestial journey is believed to be the reason why tourmaline is nicknamed "the stone of a thousand colors." This belief reflects the remarkable chromatic diversity of tourmaline, which can range from soft pink to deep green, as well as shades of blue, yellow, and even black.

Tourmaline appears in ancient writings, though under different names, often mistaken for more renowned gemstones. One of the earliest possible references to tourmaline is found in the works of Theophrastus (322–288 BC), a disciple of Aristotle and author of On Stones. He describes a gem called lyngourion, which could attract small, lightweight objects such as straw or wood shavings—a property now recognized as linked to tourmaline’s pyroelectric nature. This ability to generate an electric charge when heated or rubbed intrigued ancient civilizations and gave rise to numerous superstitions.

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, tourmaline remained largely unknown as a distinct gemstone. It was often mistaken for rubies, sapphires, or emeralds due to its rich spectrum of colors. Only with increased trade between Europe and Asia did tourmaline begin to draw more attention.

In the 16th century, Spanish conquistadors discovered deposits of green tourmaline in Brazil, believing they had found a new source of emeralds. This confusion sparked a rush to these stones, as explorers hoped to rival Colombia’s emerald mines. It was only with the advent of modern mineralogical analysis that this misidentification was corrected.

By the 17th century, tourmaline was being used in Asia and Europe more for practical purposes than decorative ones. In China, artisans carved imperial seals, brooches, and amulets from this stone. Chinese beliefs attributed to it the power to stabilize the body’s energy and harmonize emotions. The Qing emperors particularly valued pink and red tourmalines, considering them stones of prosperity and happiness.

One of the most remarkable aspects of tourmaline is its pyroelectric property: when heated, it develops an electric charge that allows it to attract light particles such as dust or ashes. This phenomenon began to intrigue European scientists in the 18th century.

Dutch merchants trading with Asia brought back stones they called aschentrekers (meaning "ash drawers") because these gems appeared to attract pipe ashes when warmed. At the time, they did not yet recognize them as tourmalines, but the phenomenon sparked the curiosity of naturalists.

In 1756, Swedish scientist Carl von Linné began studying these stones and confirmed their distinct nature. It was not until the 19th century that mineralogists were able to clearly identify tourmaline as a distinct group of minerals with a complex crystalline structure.

The history of tourmaline is marked by numerous confusions with other precious stones. Several famous gemstones were long mistaken for rubies or sapphires before being identified as tourmalines. For example, the Russian crown jewels of the 17th century contain several red tourmalines that were believed to be rubies for centuries. This confusion is due to the intense color of certain varieties, particularly rubellite tourmaline, whose hue can rival the finest Burmese rubies.

In the United States, California tourmalines experienced a significant rise in demand from the late 19th century, driven by growing interest from imperial China.

One of the most passionate historical figures regarding tourmaline was Empress Cixi (Tseu-Hi), who ruled China from 1861 to 1908. She had an unwavering admiration for this stone, especially pink and red tourmalines sourced from California mines. Under her influence, the Chinese imperial court adopted tourmaline as a gemstone of prestige and adornment.

Cixi possessed an impressive collection of jewelry and carved objects made from tourmaline. Her jewelry featured pink tourmaline cabochons set in gold and pearls. She also commissioned brooches, combs, seals, and even sculpted pillows from this stone. When she passed away in 1908, her body was laid to rest on a pink tourmaline pillow, a testament to her profound attachment to this gem.

Today, tourmaline remains highly sought after, both for its aesthetic qualities and its fascinating physical properties. In 1912, it was officially recognized as the birthstone for October, sharing this honor with opal. It is also associated with the 52nd wedding anniversary, symbolizing the stability and energy of a long-lasting relationship.

Healing properties and benefits of tourmaline

A stone of multiple colors and fascinating energetic properties, tourmaline is renowned in lithotherapy for its numerous benefits for both body and mind. Its properties vary slightly depending on its chemical composition, but it is generally associated with protection, balance, and revitalization.

• Tourmaline is known for its stabilizing effect on the nervous system. It is believed to promote a sense of calm by reducing mental agitation and emotional tension. By absorbing negative energies, it helps dissipate excessive thoughts and anxiety, fostering a feeling of serenity and peace.
• Tourmaline is often considered a grounding stone, helping to center the mind and harmonize the body’s energies. It is thought to create an energetic barrier against negative influences and external disturbances, making it a favored stone for psychic protection and emotional stability.
• Due to its supposed ability to stimulate fluid circulation in the body, tourmaline is sometimes used to facilitate the elimination of toxins. It is believed to support the lymphatic system and help purify the blood, which may benefit the entire body and promote the proper functioning of detoxifying organs such as the liver and kidneys.
• Some research suggests that tourmaline may emit far-infrared radiation, a form of energy that could have a beneficial effect on microcirculation. By improving oxygen supply to cells, it may enhance muscle recovery, reduce the sensation of heavy legs, and relieve certain circulatory issues such as varicose veins.
• Tourmaline is sometimes used to soothe digestive disorders. It is believed to help relieve bloating, abdominal pain, and gastric discomfort by regulating the energies of the solar plexus, an energy center often linked to digestive functions.
• The mineral composition of tourmaline includes iron, magnesium, and other essential trace elements, making it a stone associated with bone strength. It is used in lithotherapy to prevent demineralization and assist people suffering from bone fragility, particularly in cases of osteoporosis.
• Tourmaline may have a beneficial influence on hormonal imbalances. By stimulating certain endocrine glands, it is believed to help alleviate the effects of premenstrual syndrome, balance hormones related to menopause, and improve overall well-being.
• By promoting toxin elimination and enhancing lymphatic circulation, tourmaline may benefit those suffering from water retention. It is thought to help reduce edema and swelling, particularly in the legs.
• Tourmaline is often associated with renewed energy and vitality. By stimulating blood circulation, it contributes to better energetic balance and may also play a role in enhancing libido and sexual vitality.
• Tourmaline is frequently used for its analgesic properties. It is believed to help relieve muscle, joint, and chronic pain by reducing inflammation. It is sometimes recommended for back pain, arthritis, and muscle tension.
• Although no scientific evidence confirms its effectiveness in cancer treatment, some people use tourmaline to alleviate pain associated with the disease or its treatments, relying on its supposed energetic and soothing properties.
• Tourmaline is used in certain cosmetic formulations for its regenerating properties. It is believed to stimulate blood circulation in the skin and promote the elimination of impurities, helping to improve complexion radiance and reduce skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
• One of the properties often attributed to tourmaline is its ability to absorb electromagnetic waves emitted by electronic devices (phones, computers, Wi-Fi). Some people place it near their workspace to protect themselves from the supposed effects of these waves on well-being.

 

 

Tourmaline jewelry samples