Tourmaline is often found in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Russia, Africa, Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, USA, and Zimbabwe. It is a stone that reflects many unusual optical and physical properties. It represents a large group of related mineral species which consists of Buergerite, Chromdravite, Dravite, Elbaite, Feruvite, Liddicoatite, Rossmanite, Schorl and Uvite. The Elbaites make up most of Tourmaline's varieties including Rubellite, Indicolite, Paraíba and Watermelon Tourmaline. It is quite chemically complex which explains Tourmaline's wide color spectrum. Many variations can appear in the same stone because it is not composed of a single mineral rather many different ores and elements that make up its structure. Various elements such as sodium, calcium, lithium, magnesium, iron and manganese help create the uniquely diverse range of color. The crystal structure also contributes to its unique optical properties. The arrangement of atoms within the crystal lattice affects its ability to transmit, reflect, and absorb light.
Tourmaline's value continues to appreciate and some of the more unusual hues can fetch astronomical sums. Due to the shortage globally and its unique neon-blue color, Paraiba Tourmaline has become one of the most sought after gems in the world.
Tourmaline is renowned for its electric properties. When heated or put under pressure, it develops an electrical charge at its ends and polarizes the crystal. This phenomenon is known as pyroelectricity and piezoelectricity, making Tourmaline quite valuable for scientific instruments and industrial applications such as sensitive electronic components like pressure sensors, accelerometers, and sonar devices. It is also used in X-ray detectors and spectrometers.
Tourmaline is rich in history and cultural significance which spans over centuries and many civilizations. In ancient times, many shamans believed that wearing Tourmaline would fend off demonic spirits from attacking. The Egyptians and Romans believed it possessed mystical and protective properties. They carved talismans and amulets from Tourmaline to harness its strength, vitality, and spiritual energy. In China, it was linked with the yin and yang energies and was used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. They believed it was a stone of protection and helped to ward off negative energies. In Japan, it was believed to bring good fortune. Many Native American civilizations cherished Tourmaline and believed it brought protection and healing. They used it as well in rituals, ceremonies and even as talismans for spiritual guidance. In the European Renaissance, Tourmaline gained popularity among nobility and the upper class. Its vivid colors became highly valued and it was quite fashionable. They believed Tourmaline to have many healing properties as well and it was used in herbal remedies and elixirs. The discovery of Paraíba Tourmalines in Brazil in the 1980s created a sensation in the world, raising it’s appeal and value. Today, Tourmaline continues to be praised for its exceptional beauty and diversity.
It is said to be a stone of serenity and healing. The many colors represent different values and strengths. Tourmaline helps relieve stress and anxiety, helping to overcome tremendous odds.
It is said to alleviate the burdens one carries and provides a sense of emotional control.
Tourmaline is also said to cleanse the human body from impurities while creating a relaxing effect on the muscles and nerves. It can help with headaches, migraines, neck pain, back pain, heartburn, and much more.
Tourmaline can help assist in difficult work situations and struggling personal relationships allowing tension and stress to dissipate. It reverberates the emotional connection of an individual to their surroundings and creates a lighter setting for everyone thus helping to preserve the relationship.
Tourmaline is believed to alleviate skin allergies and other ailments allowing therapeutic relief when slowly rubbed it on the skin.
It is said to be a great match for Libras and Virgos, freeing them of the bent ideals of society. It is also considered the birthstone for October.
Black Tourmaline is a silicate crystal and helps facilitate a sense of grounding and certainty. Many believe that the dark black color devours ambient negative energy while constantly protecting its user. Black Tourmaline can help reduce explosive bursts of anger and despair and calm the entire body, allowing real confrontation to difficult situations. It is also strongly connected with the Root Chakra.
Pink Tourmaline is the stone of love, promoting empathy, courage and modesty. It is said to help release positive energy and centralize areas around the brain. This energy can help reduce anxiety and fear of the future allowing more focus on the present. It is a stone used in awakening the Heart and Crown Chakra.
Watermelon Tourmaline shares the same reputation. Its vivid and separated colors undoubtedly resemble a watermelon, hence the name.
Brown Tourmaline, also known as Dravite, is said to be good for people who want to break a chronic habits including gambling, smoking, drinking alcohol, taking drugs, among other things. It gently balances and clears all the Chakras, and draws the energy down, anchoring it firmly in the Earth. Dravite can be used to calm an overactive pineal gland, and calm the mind in general. In some systems it is used to heal family dysfunction and instill a feeling of community. It also connected to the Root Chakra.
Green Tourmaline represents life and vitality. It helps to overcome many negative emotions like envy, pride, ego, and narcissism. It is said to solve blockages and helps to understand personal needs, emotions and their cyclic nature while accepting the changes. It also promotes endurance and stamina. Green Tourmaline helps to re-balance the Heart Chakra,
The Blue Tourmaline's hues encourage the spirit to continue growing and developing intuition. The stone can also be used as an aid for astral travel and lucid dreaming, as well as helping to connect with spirit guides during meditation. It is a strong spiritual force that opens the Throat and Third Eye Chakra.
Tourmaline can be sensitive to harsh chemicals, so it’s best to avoid exposing it to substances like bleach, acids, and harsh cleaning agents. These chemicals can potentially damage the gemstone or its setting. Clean it with mild soap or warm water and a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly. It can also be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Avoid extreme heat or rapid temperature fluctuations because it can cause thermal shock and potentially damage the stone. Tourmaline can chip or fracture if subjected to hard impacts or rough handling so take care of it when putting it on or removing it. Avoid wearing it during activities that could expose it to potential impacts. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning methods. Avoid prolonged sunlight or direct heat because it can lose color or damage over time.
It is highly suggested to recharge the stone in order to regain its powers from depletion. When recharging Tourmaline, practice placing them under the moonlight or on a charging plate made of different gemstones. Some believe when activating the stone, one must begin by holding the Tourmaline with the right hand while slowly closing your eyes, letting the mind and body unite. It then transfers its energy to vital points based on the color.
Tourmaline's value continues to appreciate and some of the more unusual hues can fetch astronomical sums. Due to the shortage globally and its unique neon-blue color, Paraiba Tourmaline has become one of the most sought after gems in the world.
Tourmaline is renowned for its electric properties. When heated or put under pressure, it develops an electrical charge at its ends and polarizes the crystal. This phenomenon is known as pyroelectricity and piezoelectricity, making Tourmaline quite valuable for scientific instruments and industrial applications such as sensitive electronic components like pressure sensors, accelerometers, and sonar devices. It is also used in X-ray detectors and spectrometers.
Tourmaline is rich in history and cultural significance which spans over centuries and many civilizations. In ancient times, many shamans believed that wearing Tourmaline would fend off demonic spirits from attacking. The Egyptians and Romans believed it possessed mystical and protective properties. They carved talismans and amulets from Tourmaline to harness its strength, vitality, and spiritual energy. In China, it was linked with the yin and yang energies and was used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. They believed it was a stone of protection and helped to ward off negative energies. In Japan, it was believed to bring good fortune. Many Native American civilizations cherished Tourmaline and believed it brought protection and healing. They used it as well in rituals, ceremonies and even as talismans for spiritual guidance. In the European Renaissance, Tourmaline gained popularity among nobility and the upper class. Its vivid colors became highly valued and it was quite fashionable. They believed Tourmaline to have many healing properties as well and it was used in herbal remedies and elixirs. The discovery of Paraíba Tourmalines in Brazil in the 1980s created a sensation in the world, raising it’s appeal and value. Today, Tourmaline continues to be praised for its exceptional beauty and diversity.
It is said to be a stone of serenity and healing. The many colors represent different values and strengths. Tourmaline helps relieve stress and anxiety, helping to overcome tremendous odds.
It is said to alleviate the burdens one carries and provides a sense of emotional control.
Tourmaline is also said to cleanse the human body from impurities while creating a relaxing effect on the muscles and nerves. It can help with headaches, migraines, neck pain, back pain, heartburn, and much more.
Tourmaline can help assist in difficult work situations and struggling personal relationships allowing tension and stress to dissipate. It reverberates the emotional connection of an individual to their surroundings and creates a lighter setting for everyone thus helping to preserve the relationship.
Tourmaline is believed to alleviate skin allergies and other ailments allowing therapeutic relief when slowly rubbed it on the skin.
It is said to be a great match for Libras and Virgos, freeing them of the bent ideals of society. It is also considered the birthstone for October.
Black Tourmaline is a silicate crystal and helps facilitate a sense of grounding and certainty. Many believe that the dark black color devours ambient negative energy while constantly protecting its user. Black Tourmaline can help reduce explosive bursts of anger and despair and calm the entire body, allowing real confrontation to difficult situations. It is also strongly connected with the Root Chakra.
Pink Tourmaline is the stone of love, promoting empathy, courage and modesty. It is said to help release positive energy and centralize areas around the brain. This energy can help reduce anxiety and fear of the future allowing more focus on the present. It is a stone used in awakening the Heart and Crown Chakra.
Watermelon Tourmaline shares the same reputation. Its vivid and separated colors undoubtedly resemble a watermelon, hence the name.
Brown Tourmaline, also known as Dravite, is said to be good for people who want to break a chronic habits including gambling, smoking, drinking alcohol, taking drugs, among other things. It gently balances and clears all the Chakras, and draws the energy down, anchoring it firmly in the Earth. Dravite can be used to calm an overactive pineal gland, and calm the mind in general. In some systems it is used to heal family dysfunction and instill a feeling of community. It also connected to the Root Chakra.
Green Tourmaline represents life and vitality. It helps to overcome many negative emotions like envy, pride, ego, and narcissism. It is said to solve blockages and helps to understand personal needs, emotions and their cyclic nature while accepting the changes. It also promotes endurance and stamina. Green Tourmaline helps to re-balance the Heart Chakra,
The Blue Tourmaline's hues encourage the spirit to continue growing and developing intuition. The stone can also be used as an aid for astral travel and lucid dreaming, as well as helping to connect with spirit guides during meditation. It is a strong spiritual force that opens the Throat and Third Eye Chakra.
Tourmaline can be sensitive to harsh chemicals, so it’s best to avoid exposing it to substances like bleach, acids, and harsh cleaning agents. These chemicals can potentially damage the gemstone or its setting. Clean it with mild soap or warm water and a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly. It can also be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Avoid extreme heat or rapid temperature fluctuations because it can cause thermal shock and potentially damage the stone. Tourmaline can chip or fracture if subjected to hard impacts or rough handling so take care of it when putting it on or removing it. Avoid wearing it during activities that could expose it to potential impacts. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning methods. Avoid prolonged sunlight or direct heat because it can lose color or damage over time.
It is highly suggested to recharge the stone in order to regain its powers from depletion. When recharging Tourmaline, practice placing them under the moonlight or on a charging plate made of different gemstones. Some believe when activating the stone, one must begin by holding the Tourmaline with the right hand while slowly closing your eyes, letting the mind and body unite. It then transfers its energy to vital points based on the color.