PARAÍBA TOURMALINE
The Paraíba Tourmaline is part of the mineral class of silicates. The stone derives its color from traces of the elements copper and manganese. It is named after the State of Paraíba in Brazil, where it was discovered in the 1980s.
Paraíba Tourmaline, Brazil (4.14 ct)
Class: silicates
Genesis: Pegmatites (magma, tourmalines form relatively late in "miarolitic“ cavities, in part in hydrothermally impacted cavities of pegmatitic bodies)
Known varieties:
Colors: turquoise, neon blue, green
Hardness: 7
Optical effects: cat-eye effect
Most important deposits: Mozambique, Brazil, Nigeria
The Paraíba Tourmaline is a variety of elbaite, which in turn belongs to the group of tourmalines. The chemical composition of the mineral is critical for distinguishing it from other Tourmalines.
The Paraíba Tourmaline, with its beautiful blue color ("swimming pool blue”), has barely been found in blue anymore in recent years. Increasingly the green varieties are also sought after. Blue Paraíba Tourmalines over 2 grams are hardly ever found anymore in Brazil. The original main mine has closed, now individual farmers are the only ones still searching for more. The main site of discovery is Mozambique.
Frequently the only option is to resort to old mines. It is therefore among the truly rare gemstones whose prices have risen sharply of late, according to market reports.
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