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Paraiba Tourmaline

A jewel born of lightning and the deepest ocean, Paraiba Tourmaline captivates with an electrifying spectrum of neon blues and greens, a singular marvel in the realm of precious stones.

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Paraiba Tourmaline

A jewel born of lightning and the deepest ocean, Paraiba Tourmaline captivates with an electrifying spectrum of neon blues and greens, a singular marvel in the realm of precious stones.

RARESEMI-PRECIOUSTourmaline Family

At a Glance

7-7.5Mohs
Hardness
Trigonal
Crystal System
Tourmaline
Mineral Group
Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄
Chemical Formula
3.03-3.10g/cm³
Density

Varieties & Forms

Forms & Cuts

The Story of Paraiba Tourmaline

We invite you to immerse yourself in the ethereal glow of Paraiba Tourmaline, a gemstone that transcends mere color to become a vibrant pulse of light. Its extraordinary luminescence, ranging from vivid electric blue to a verdant, almost liquid green, is an alchemy unique to its copper and manganese heart. This incandescent saturation, a signature 'neon' quality, sets it apart, rendering it instantly recognizable and profoundly coveted among discerning collectors.

While its legend began in the sun-drenched hills of Brazil's Paraíba state, where it first emerged in a blaze of glory in the late 1980s, kindred spirits have since been unearthed in Mozambique and Nigeria. Yet, the evocative name 'Paraiba' now universally embraces any copper-bearing tourmaline that exhibits this unparalleled, internal radiance, regardless of its precise geographical cradle. Its profound scarcity, coupled with a chromatic intensity that defies comparison, solidifies its standing as one of the most desirable and intrinsically valuable treasures the earth bestows.

Sources & References

  • 1.https://www.gia.edu/paraiba-tourmaline
  • 2.https://www.mindat.org/min-28080.html
  • 3.https://www.gemological.org/gem-encyclopedia/paraiba-tourmaline/

History & Mythology

The narrative of Paraiba Tourmaline begins not in ancient lore, but with a recent, breathtaking discovery. In 1987, the visionary Heitor Dimas Barbosa unearthed these luminous crystals in the Paraíba state of Brazil, sending ripples of astonishment through the global gemological community. The sheer, unprecedented vibrancy of their hues was an immediate sensation, a revelation of color previously unseen in the natural world. Though the original Brazilian mines, the fount of this initial splendor, are now largely exhausted, the legacy of these inaugural finds endures, imbuing each surviving Brazilian stone with an almost mythical status and an ever-increasing allure.

Symbolism & Meaning

Paraiba Tourmaline embodies an essence of profound individuality and unbridled self-expression. Its incandescent glow is a beacon of enlightenment, inspiring those who wear it to embrace their unique spirit and radiate their inner light with unwavering confidence. It speaks of a rare beauty that dares to be seen, a celebration of distinctiveness.

Origins & Localities

Primary Origins

Brazil, Mozambique, Nigeria

Market & Value

ultra rareultra high Value

Price Range (per carat)

Several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per carat, depending on size, color, and clarity.

Notable Sale

Null

Current Market

Strong demand, especially for larger, high-quality stones.

Investment Perspective

Beyond its captivating beauty, Paraiba Tourmaline represents a judicious and sophisticated investment. Its inherent rarity, particularly for specimens originating from Brazil, combined with a perpetually escalating global demand, positions it as a gemstone of significant and enduring value. As primary sources continue to yield fewer new discoveries, the intrinsic worth of existing stones appreciates, making it a treasured asset for the discerning connoisseur.

Classification

Mineral Class

Silicates

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Mineral Species

Tourmaline

Complex borosilicate

Trade Names

Neon Blue

Color
Premium

Swimming Pool Blue

Color
Premium

Paraíba

Origin
Premium

Care & Usage

Featured by Prestigious Houses

CartierBvlgariTiffany & Co.

Care Instructions

DO'S
  • Clean with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush.
  • Store separately to prevent scratching by harder gems.
DON'TS
  • Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.

Storage & Maintenance

  • Store separately in a soft cloth or padded box to prevent scratches
  • Keep away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight
  • Remove jewelry before physical activities or exposure to chemicals
  • Have your gemstone jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected annually