Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a multi-coloured variety of the mineral silicate. Most commonly tourmaline is found in colours in a spectrum between pink and green, where certain crystals are bi- and tri-coloured. A specific composition of tourmaline, with a green outer layer and a pink centre is known as watermelon tourmaline.

Tourmaline was brought to Europe by the Spanish conquistadors in the 1500s, however tourmaline has historically often been mistaken as other stones, such as emerald. During the early 17th century large quantities was brought to Europe from Sri Lanka by Dutch East India Company, which is also from where tourmaline derives its name – from the Sinhalese word “thoramalli”, meaning “mixed-gems”.

It was early discovered that tourmaline had magnetic properties, where the stone would attract small charged particles, and it has been suggested that the stone has an internal vibration, which is supposed to be strong enough for very sensitive individuals to feel it. Because of these properties it was believed that tourmaline would have a warming and protecting effect on the wearer.

Tourmaline was believed to give good fortune, and green tourmaline was supposed to have been especially beneficial for people in business and can help make friends of strangers. Pink tourmaline on the other hand has been considered beneficial for social interactions and in order to attract friends.

The gemstone is also supposed to give courage and cheerfulness to the wearer.

Tourmaline is the the birthstone of October and the zodiacal birthstone of Virgo.

Historically worn for: protection, good fortune and social interactions.