Tourmaline: October Birthstone Quick Facts
Tourmaline Color: Most commonly black but can also be found in blue, green, yellow, red, pink and more
Tourmaline Mohs Hardness Scale Rating: 7.0-7.5
Tourmaline Symbolism & Meaning: Soothing, calming
Tourmaline Zodiac Signs: Libra and Scorpio
Other Recognitions: Gemstone for the 8th wedding anniversary
What is Tourmaline?
The tourmaline group refers to several related types of minerals and varieties. Tourmaline tends to crystallize in hard rocks like granite or quartz, making it difficult to mine without breakage. Colors are diverse, and a single crystal can contain multiple colors. Concentrations of iron, magnesium, nickel, calcium, chromium and cobalt create the rainbow of colors. It is mined in Brazil, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Russia, Italy, Switzerland, Africa, and California and Maine in the US.
Tourmaline Color & Meaning
Tourmalines have one of the broadest color ranges of any gem and were often mistaken for other gemstones because of this. This wide variety of colors is caused by traces of iron, titanium and more. Iron-rich tourmalines are usually black to bluish-black to deep brown, while magnesium-rich varieties are brown to yellow. Lithium-rich tourmalines are almost any color, including blue, green, red, yellow, pink and more. Among the most popular colors are the pink and red rubellites, the emerald green “chrome” tourmalines, and the neon green and blue-to-violet “paraíba” tourmalines.
Tourmaline is known as a “receptive stone,” which means it is soothing, calming, inward, and magnetic, promoting meditation, spirituality, wisdom and mysticism. The many different colors of tourmaline are believed to have their own healing properties. Black tourmaline is thought to protect the wearer and give a sense of self-confidence. Pink tourmaline embodies love and is associated with compassion and gentleness, while green tourmaline promotes courage, strength and stamina.
Tourmaline Care & Cleaning
The tourmaline gemstone is generally suitable for everyday wear. These colorful gems are usually stable enough to withstand light and most chemicals but can be damaged by heat. Tourmaline is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. The use of ultrasonic and steam cleaners is not recommended for cleaning tourmaline. When not being worn, tourmaline jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box lined with soft fabric.
Tourmaline Jewelry & Gift Ideas
Whether you are shopping for yourself or someone else, Borsheims has an extensive selection of tourmaline jewelry in various styles. Tourmaline is a popular gift option for those celebrating October birthdays and those commemorating their 8th wedding anniversary. If you need help picking out the perfect piece of tourmaline jewelry, one of our experts would be happy to assist you. Stop into our store or text or call 402.391.0400 during store hours to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable sales associates.
