Top 10 Tourmaline Tips
- Banwells
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Tourmaline is one of the most exciting and versatile gemstones in the world but with so many colours, varieties, and characteristics it helps to know a few insider tips before buying or wearing it.
At Banwells, we’ve put together our top 10 tourmaline tips to help you get the most from this extraordinary gem...
1 Tourmaline Comes in Every Colour
From delicate pastel pinks to rich emerald greens and electric blues, tourmaline is famous for its rainbow of shades. The rarer the colour (think Paraiba blue or vivid red rubellite), the more valuable the stone.
2. Consider Cut for Maximum Brilliance
Tourmaline’s crystal structure allows for creative cutting. Emerald cuts highlight clarity, while brilliant cuts maximise brilliance. Some stones even show a cat’s eye effect (chatoyancy) when cut correctly.
3. Paraiba Tourmaline is Ultra Rare
Paraiba tourmaline, with its neon blue-green glow, is one of the world’s rarest and most expensive gemstones. Its colour comes from traces of copper, and genuine stones are highly prized.
4. Tourmaline is a Durable Gem
Ranking 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale, tourmaline is hard enough for rings, earrings, and everyday jewellery; but avoid harsh knocks and store pieces separately to prevent scratches.
5. It’s a Stone with Energy and Symbolism
Throughout history, tourmaline has been believed to inspire creativity, protect against negativity, and even promote emotional balance. Many people choose tourmaline not just for its beauty but for its energy.
6. Heat & Light Can Affect Colour
Like many gemstones, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can sometimes fade certain tourmaline colours. Store your jewellery in a cool, dark place when not in use.
7. Look for Clean Stones with Strong Colour
When buying tourmaline, colour is king. Vibrancy and even saturation are key. Some stones (like rubellite) may have natural inclusions but clarity combined with good colour is most desirable.
8 Tourmaline Makes a Wonderful Birthstone
Tourmaline is the birthstone for October and its vast colour range means there’s a perfect piece for every personality.
9. Buy from a Trusted Source
Due to tourmaline’s variety and popularity, always buy from reputable jewellers who disclose any treatments or enhancements. At Banwells, every gemstone is selected for its natural beauty and integrity.
Watermelon Tourmaline is a Natural Wonder
This striking variety features pink, green, and sometimes white zoning in a single stone; just like a slice of watermelon. Totally natural, totally unique.
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