October Birthstone: 10 Fun Facts (Tourmaline)
Above: Some of the tourmalines we have in stock (at time of posting) ready for Erin to craft into unique pieces.
Tourmalines are one of Erin’s favourite gemstones. Here are 10 fun facts about Tourmalines that will hopefully make you love this rainbow gem just as much as she does!
Rainbow of Colours: Tourmalines are often referred to as the "gemstone of the rainbow" due to their remarkable range of colours.
Gemstone of Many Names: The name "tourmaline" is derived from the Sinhalese word "turamali," which means "stone with mixed colors." Interestingly, throughout history, tourmalines were often confused with other gemstones due to their diverse colors, leading to various names like "Ceylonese ruby" for red tourmaline and "Brazilian emerald" for green tourmaline.
Watermelon Tourmalines: One type of tourmaline exhibits a unique and beautiful colour gradient that closely resembles the appearance of a slice of watermelon! Typically, these gemstones display a combination of pink, green, and sometimes even a white ring, creating a stunning visual effect.
Tourmaline's Color-Changing Effect: Certain varieties of tourmalines exhibit a phenomenon known as pleochroism, where the gemstone appears to change color when viewed from different angles. Oooo it’s enough to turn you a little ‘Gollum’!
Brazilian Connection: Brazil is a significant source of tourmalines, and the country has yielded some of the world's most exceptional specimens.
6. Varied sources: These gems can be found in a wide range of locations around the world, from the historic mines of Afghanistan to the picturesque landscapes of Maine, USA. Each locality contributes to the unique character of the tourmalines it produces
7. Historical Significance: Tourmalines have a rich history, with legends suggesting that they traveled along the legendary "Silk Road" trade route. In ancient times, tourmalines were often used as protective talismans, believed to enhance spiritual awareness and protect against negative energies.
8. Tourmalines in Traveler's Lore: According to folklore, tourmalines are considered a traveler's stone, believed to provide protection against misfortune and accidents during journeys. Sailors, in particular, were known to carry tourmalines to ensure safe travels across treacherous seas.
9. Tourmaline Birthstone: Tourmaline is recognized as the birthstone for the month of October. Lucky October babies we say!
10. Caring for Tourmalines: We recommend maintaining tourmalines by cleaning them gently with warm, soapy water and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals. We also recommend storing them with care to prevent scratches.
Below are some of the one-of-a-kind tourmaline pieces we have made and ready for you to take home! These are all available at the time of posting but once they are gone they are gone! Contact us if you would like any of these items re-sized for the perfect length/fit.
