Paraiba Tourmaline
The rare copper and manganese-bearing Tourmaline
Paraiba Tourmalines are named after the location in Brazil where these rare and unusual gems were first discovered.
They contain copper and manganese and range in color from violet-blue, blue to bluish-green that is sometimes neon in appearance. They are normally available in pastel to medium tones.
Today, they are found in several locations around the world including Brazil, Nigeria and Mozambique and are also referred to as ‘Cuprian Tourmalines’ or ‘Copper-bearing Tourmalines’.
Inclusions are fairly common and typical with Paraiba Tourmalines; color and size are more critical factors when it comes to their rarity and value.
Tourmalines are part of a family of closely related mineral species with the same crystal structure but with different chemical and physical properties.
Tourmaline is one of the birthstones for October and celebrates the 8th Anniversary.
Lots of choice in colors for October birthdays!
We have more colors, shapes and sizes available in Paraiba Tourmaline – please contact us if you don’t find what you are looking for in our online inventory.
click here to see a selection of Paraiba Tourmaline for sale
Colors | neon blue-green blue bluish-green green teal violet-blue |
Family/Species | Tourmaline, Elbaite |
Properties | RI = 1.624 (+/-0.005) – 1.644 (+/-0.006) DR SG = 3.06 (-0.05, +0.15) Dispersion = 0.017 Hardness = 7-7.5 suitable for use in jewelry Pyroelectric – becomes electrically charged when heated |
Treatments | Usually Heated, but sometimes also available unheated Elbaite gems can be 100% natural with no treatments or enhancements, or heated, or irradiated and heated see policy on Treatment Disclosure |
Important information | Usually colored by Copper and Manganese; also referred to as ‘Cuprian Tourmaline’ or ‘Copper-bearing Tourmaline’ Very rare in larger sizes |
Birthstone | October |
Anniversary | 8th |
Cuts | free sizes, in classic cuts as well as non-traditional cuts |
Mining locations | Brazil, Nigeria, Mozambique |