Top 5 Facts about Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a versatile gem that comes in a myriad of hues. Its name comes from the Singhalese word "tourmali," meaning "mixed," which aptly describes the gemstone's unique and beautiful variety. Its many colors make tourmaline a popular gem for use in jewelry, giving consumers a wide range of options. Tourmaline is one of the birthstones for those born in the month of October and shows well in a wide range of jewelry choices, such as tourmaline rings and tourmaline earrings. Tourmaline is the perfect way to add the look of gemstone jewelry to any outfit. Let us help you select tourmaline jewelry for your wardrobe.

5 Facts about Tourmaline:

1. Types: The various colors of tourmaline are known by different names. Black tourmaline, for example, is known as schorl, and green tourmaline is called verdelite. Watermelon tourmaline is known for its outer green and inner red hues. Tourmaline jewelry might focus on one beautiful stone, while other pieces might incorporate a myriad of hues.

2. Features: Tourmaline measures 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, making it quite durable among gemstones. Tourmaline is easy to care for and gemstone jewelry incorporating this lovely stone can be worn daily. The lighting can change the hue of a tourmaline. As you view your tourmaline ring from different angles, you can see different colors at varying intensities. Warmer colors, such as red, orange and yellow, look brilliant when viewed under incandescent lighting, while cooler colors, such as blue, green and violet, shine under natural lighting.

3. Cuts: Tourmalines show well in a variety of cuts. Like most other gemstones, the cut of a tourmaline can enhance the stone's hues, and gem cutters choose cuts that will intensify the gem's colors and showcase its best qualities. Faceted cuts are quite popular with tourmalines because they allow a gem to capture and reflect light and color. Tourmalines can also be cut into cabochons and beads.

4. Gem imposter: Tourmalines can have very bright, saturated hues and often look just like other gemstones. Red tourmalines might look like rubies, while green tourmalines will appeal to emerald lovers. Choose tourmaline jewelry such as tourmaline earrings, bracelets and rings that exhibit your favorite colors to add a personal touch to your style.

5. Alternative uses: Tourmaline hair appliances are great for professional styles. Tourmaline is a good conductor of heat and also produces more negative ions than many other materials. Negative ions are important for keeping hair healthy, and the even heat distribution provided by tourmaline plates can give fantastic styling results. Flat irons, curling irons and blow dryers with tourmaline heat plates are considered some of the best hair appliances available.