Paraiba Tourmaline – An Introduction

Paraiba Tourmaline Rings

Paraiba Tourmaline Rings

Although not a stone everyone knows, paraiba tourmaline is one of the more stunning colored gemstones.  It is the rarest and most expensive of the tourmaline colors that is has often been overlooked.  However, this is changing as we are beginning to see more Paraiba Tourmaline Rings being sold.  Paraiba tourmaline also has a very interesting history. It has also become a go to stone for investors as gem quality specimens can command prices far higher than diamonds.  In this post, we will discuss this underutilized gemstone and why we love it.

What is Tourmaline?

Tourmaline is a gemstone that comes in a variety of colors, ranging from pink and green to blue and black. It is known for its unique crystal structure, which allows it to generate an electric charge when heated or rubbed. This property, known as pyroelectricity, makes tourmaline a popular choice for jewelry and other decorative purposes.

Not only is tourmaline visually stunning, but it also has some interesting metaphysical properties. Many believe that tourmaline can help protect against negative energy and promote a sense of calm and balance. Whether you’re a believer in the power of crystals or not, there’s no denying the beauty and allure of tourmaline.

In addition to its aesthetic and metaphysical qualities, tourmaline also has practical uses. It is commonly used in the field of electronics due to its ability to conduct electricity. Tourmaline is also used in certain beauty and wellness products, as it is believed to have detoxifying and purifying properties.

Overall, tourmaline is a fascinating gemstone that offers both beauty and functionality. Whether you’re looking for a stunning piece of jewelry or a crystal with metaphysical properties, tourmaline is definitely worth considering.

What is Paraiba Tourmaline?

Paraiba tourmaline is a rare and exquisite type of tourmaline that has gained significant popularity in recent years. Known for its vibrant blue-green color, this gemstone is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Its unique color is due to the presence of copper in its chemical composition, which gives it a mesmerizing glow.

One of the most fascinating aspects of paraiba tourmaline is its rarity. It was first discovered in the late 1980s in the Paraiba state of Brazil, hence its name. Since then, small deposits have been found in other countries such as Mozambique and Nigeria, but the Brazilian stones remain the most prized.

Who Discovered It?

Heitor Barbosa is credited with the discovery of Paraiba tourmaline.  His journey to uncover the beauty of Paraiba tourmaline began in the late 1980s, when he stumbled upon a small mining site in the Brazilian state of Paraiba. At first glance, the gemstones found there appeared to be ordinary tourmalines. However, Barbosa’s keen eye and extensive knowledge led him to suspect that there was something extraordinary about these stones.

After conducting thorough research and analysis, Barbosa made a groundbreaking revelation. He discovered that the vibrant blue and green hues of these tourmalines were the result of trace amounts of copper and manganese. This unique combination of elements gave birth to the mesmerizing gemstone we now know as Paraiba tourmaline.

Barbosa’s discovery of Paraiba tourmaline revolutionized the gemstone industry. Its vivid colors and rarity have made it highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Today, Paraiba tourmaline is considered one of the most valuable gemstones in the world.

In addition to its striking color and scarcity, paraiba tourmaline also boasts impressive durability. With a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, it is suitable for everyday wear and can withstand the rigors of daily life. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want a unique and eye-catching gemstone that will stand the test of time.

Basically, paraiba tourmaline is a truly remarkable gemstone that captivates with its stunning color, rarity, and durability. Whether you are a gemstone collector or someone looking to add a touch of elegance to your jewelry collection.  Paraiba tourmaline is a gemstone that is sure to impress. Its vibrant blue-green hue and captivating glow make it a true treasure that is worth cherishing.

Chemical Composition

Paraiba tourmaline is highly sought after for its vibrant and unique color. The chemical composition of this gemstone is a complex mix of elements, including aluminum, boron, silicon, oxygen, and various trace elements. However, what truly sets paraiba tourmaline apart is the presence of copper, which gives the stone its stunning blue-green hue.

Copper is responsible for the electrifying color of paraiba tourmaline. It acts as a chromophore, absorbing certain wavelengths of light and reflecting others. This interaction between light and copper ions within the crystal lattice creates the mesmerizing glow that makes paraiba tourmaline so captivating.

The presence of copper in paraiba tourmaline is relatively rare, which contributes to its high value and desirability among gemstone enthusiasts. The combination of its chemical composition and the unique presence of copper results in a gemstone that is truly one-of-a-kind, making it a prized addition to any jewelry collection.

Paraiba Tourmaline Rings
Paraiba Tourmaline Rings can rage in color from sky blue a lime green. However, the more green in the stone, the less rare and valuable they are.

Where is Paraiba Tourmaline Mined?

Tourmaline is formed in the depths of the Earth’s crust. The formation of Paraiba tourmaline begins when hot, mineral-rich fluids rise from deep within the Earth and interact with the surrounding rocks. These fluids carry the necessary elements, such as copper and manganese, which are essential for the formation of the gemstone. As the fluids cool and solidify, they create pockets or cavities within the rocks, where the tourmaline crystals start to grow over time.

Paraiba tourmaline is primarily mined in the northeastern state of Paraiba in Brazil. This region is famous for producing some of the most stunning and sought-after gemstones in the world. The Paraiba tourmaline mines are located in the municipalities of São José da Batalha and São Miguel de Taipu, where the gemstone is found in pegmatite deposits.

The mining process for Paraiba tourmaline involves extracting the gemstone from the earth’s crust using heavy machinery and tools. Miners carefully dig through the soil and rock layers, searching for veins of tourmaline. Once a potential deposit is identified, it is carefully excavated to uncover the precious gemstones.

The Paraiba tourmaline mines in Brazil are known for their exceptional quality and vibrant colors. The gemstones found in this region display a mesmerizing range of hues, including vivid blues, greens, and purples. This unique coloration is attributed to the presence of copper and manganese in the tourmaline crystals.

If you’re a fan of exquisite gemstones with a touch of Brazilian flair, look no further than the Paraiba tourmaline mines in Brazil. With their stunning colors and exceptional quality, these gemstones are a true treasure. So, whether you’re a collector, a jewelry enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, consider adding a Paraiba tourmaline to your collection.

What Does Paraiba Cost?

Paraiba Tourmaline, can come with a hefty price tag. Due to its rarity and unique hue, the cost of Paraiba Tourmaline can vary greatly depending on several factors. Factors such as the size, quality, and origin of the gemstone all play a role in determining its price. It is not uncommon for Paraiba Tourmaline to fetch prices ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars per carat.

When it comes to purchasing Paraiba Tourmaline, it is important to do your research and buy from a reputable source. With such a high demand for this gemstone, there are unfortunately many fakes and imitations on the market. To ensure you are getting an authentic Paraiba Tourmaline, it is advisable to seek out certified gemologists or reputable jewelers who specialize in rare gemstones.

Today, the most desirable paraiba tourmalines sell for more than $10,000 per carat.  However, some stones were recently purchased in Japan at the insane price of $20,000 per carat.

Paraiba Tourmaline Rings

Paraiba Tourmaline Rings are a stunning choice for anyone looking to add a pop of color to their jewelry collection. With their vibrant blue-green hue, these rings are sure to turn heads and make a statement. The unique color of Paraiba tourmaline is truly mesmerizing, and it is no wonder that these gemstones are highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

Not only are Paraiba tourmaline rings visually striking, but they also hold significant value. These gemstones are rare and can only be found in a few locations around the world, including Brazil and Mozambique. This exclusivity adds to their allure and makes them a coveted choice for those in the know.

When it comes to choosing a Paraiba tourmaline ring, there are a few things to consider. The quality of the gemstone is of utmost importance, as it determines the intensity and saturation of the color. Additionally, the cut and setting of the ring can greatly enhance the beauty of the stone. Whether you prefer a classic solitaire or a more intricate design, there is a Paraiba tourmaline ring out there to suit your personal style.

Ultimately, Paraiba tourmaline rings are a stunning and valuable choice for anyone looking to make a statement with their jewelry. With their vibrant blue-green color and rarity, these gemstones are truly one-of-a-kind. So why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? Treat yourself to a Paraiba tourmaline ring and let your style shine.

Famous Paraiba Tourmalines

Paraiba Tourmaline stones are some of the most famous and sought-after gemstones in the world. Known for their vibrant blue and green hues, these stones have captivated gem enthusiasts and collectors alike. One of the most famous Paraiba Tourmaline stones is the “Eldorado,” a stunning 10.03 carat gem that showcases the stone’s signature neon blue color. Another notable stone is the “Sunrise,” a 5.05 carat Paraiba Tourmaline that boasts a mesmerizing greenish-blue shade. These stones are not only visually striking, but also incredibly rare, making them highly coveted by jewelry connoisseurs.

In addition to the Eldorado and Sunrise, there are several other famous Paraiba Tourmaline stones that have made their mark in the gemstone world. The “Aurora,” a 6.18 carat gem, is known for its intense blue color and exceptional clarity. Another notable stone is the “Ocean Dream,” a 5.51 carat Paraiba Tourmaline that showcases a unique blend of blue and green tones, resembling the colors of the ocean. These stones are not only beautiful, but also hold significant value due to their scarcity and the difficulty in sourcing them.

Paraiba Tourmaline Rings star of the ocean paraiba

Give Us A Shot!

We make Custom Paraiba Tourmaline Rings. In fact, custom jewelry is all we do. And custom is the only way to go if you are looking for Paraiba Tourmaline Rings.  For one thing, only ultra high end jewelry stores would carry Paraiba Tourmaline Rings.  They don’t have enough mass appeal and are generally too expensive for lower end retail jewelry stores.  But if you are going to spend the money on Paraiba Tourmaline Rings, you should go to a custom jeweler.  A customer jeweler will pick the perfect stone for you.  Unlike at the typical retail stores, where you would be limited to what they have.  And that is is they have any Paraiba Tourmaline Rings.

You can view our portfolio of custom engagement rings or custom pendants to look for ideas.  Or you can contact us about Paraiba Tourmaline Jewelry.  We make the jewelry you can’t find anywhere else.  And many times, for less than comparable Paraiba Tourmaline Rings would cost at a retail store.

Paraiba Tourmaline – An Introduction

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