Tourmaline is one of the modern October birthstones, alongside opal. Tourmalines are among many jewellery designers’ favourite as it comes in a wide array of colours that can be styled into a unique engagement ring without breaking the bank - it’s often mistaken for the higher-valued emerald or ruby.
The word 'tourmaline' came from the Sinhalese word turmali, which means a stone of mixed colour. The versatility of this stone makes it a perfect match for any fashion statement and bold personalities - whether one wants to stand out in a single colour, bi-colour or multi-colour.
Key Takeaways
- October birthstone: tourmaline sits alongside opal on the modern October list.
- Best colour: look for bright, pure tones, as red, green and blue are the most sought after.
- Hardness: tourmaline rates 7 to 7.5, so it is relatively hard but still needs care.
- Cleaning: use water, mild soap and a soft brush, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners and extreme heat.
- Meanings: the healing and protection stories are folklore, not medical advice.
Why Tourmaline Is an October Birthstone
Tourmaline joined opal as an October birthstone in 1952, when Jewelers of America added it to the official list. If you like a more colourful alternative to opal, tourmaline is a perfect choice.
- Modern list: opal and pink tourmaline.
- Ancient and traditional list: aquamarine, beryl, coral and opal.
- Folklore: opals were thought to be lucky, and should only be worn in October by people who have October birthdays.
See how birthstones look in a ring in our birthstone rings collection.
Tourmaline: A Stone of Healing and Protection in Folklore
While geologists may marvel at the mineral composition that makes this semi-precious stone come in a number of colours that range from black, blue and pink ~ Tourmaline is traditionally believed to give its wearer protection against dangers. From ancient India to Africa, people believed this stone to bring healing powers that promote calm, wisdom and spirituality.
Some modern-day mystics use this gemstone to ease stress. These meanings are folklore, not medical advice.
Tourmaline colours and their meanings
Interested in owning one? Each colour has its own meaning and uses, so you may want to read this first:
- Pink: this can vary from light pink to deep red. As a symbol of love, this stone is thought to bring about romance and a loving relationship between you and your partner. It is said to help you deal with misunderstandings and emotional pain. It brings joy and love to the wearer.
- Black: more like dark blue to dark brown, this colour is thought to be a grounding stone. If you need a boost in confidence and protection in difficult times, you can wear this stone as an amulet.
- Green: this stone is believed to boost your strength, stamina, and vitality. Ranging from light to dark green, this is the masculine counterpart of the pink tourmaline.
- Brown: from yellow to dark brown, this stone is believed to restore your emotional balance. Too many worries lately? This may just be your saving grace!
- Purple: if you want to relax, you may like this soothing stone that speaks serenity.
- Blue: from the more expensive aqua-green colour to indigo, you can never go wrong with this stone if you wish for clear and honest communication.
- Multicoloured: your love is one in a billion and what better stone can celebrate this than the rare version of tourmaline. It can be a mix of any two or more colours. This stone is perfect for those seeking insights and inspiration.
Your Tourmaline Buying Checklist
Use these steps to choose a tourmaline that suits your style and budget:
- Pick a colour: look for bright, pure tones, as red, green and blue are the most sought after.
- Check the saturation: more saturated hues come at a higher price, while dark-toned stones can look blackish.
- Look at the inclusions: small natural marks can add colour variation and make your ring more unique.
- Choose a cut that shows the colour: long rectangles and lengthwise cuts show the depth of colour.
- Set a budget for size: the per-carat price increases significantly at the five-carat mark.
Tourmaline at a glance
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Hardness | 7 to 7.5 on the hardness scale |
| Colours | Pink, black, green, brown, purple, blue and multicoloured |
| Most expensive colour | The bluish-green of Paraiba tourmaline |
| Cleaning | Water, mild soap and a soft brush |
| Avoid | Ultrasonic cleaners and extreme heat |
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers. Here’s what you need to know before buying one:
What is the best tourmaline colour?
This is subjective but we suggest looking for bright, pure tones. Red, green and blue are the most sought after. Hues that are more saturated come at a higher price. Those that are dark-toned are more common and less attractive, since they absorb light and appear to be blackish.
What is the most expensive tourmaline colour?
The most expensive colour is usually the bluish-green of Paraiba tourmaline, which made a splash in the 80s. It has a more attractive hue and higher colour saturation, and it can be extremely scarce, which affects the way it's priced.
Should I look for flaws?
It might surprise you that tourmaline can be more valuable with flaws, as these delicate inclusions help refract light, giving the stone more colour variation. Inclusions are tiny natural marks inside the stone. These flaws help to make your engagement ring even more unique.
What cut is best for tourmaline?
Many are styling this stone into long rectangles or cutting it lengthwise to show its depth and variety of colour (pleochroism). The quality of cut makes all the difference, especially when you want to display the beautiful colour of the stone in all its natural glory.
Should I go for bigger stones?
It really depends on your budget and your personal style. Depending on a tourmaline's colour and quality, larger sizes can often be more costly, as the per-carat price increases significantly when it hits the five-carat mark. A stone that suits your style matters more than size.
How do I care for tourmaline?
With a 7-7.5 rating on the hardness scale, tourmaline is relatively hard but not invincible. Avoid sharp blows, especially to stones with flaws or multiple colours. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners or expose it to extreme heat, as this may alter its colour. Clean it with water, mild soap and a soft brush, and see our jewellery care guide.
Birthstone Rings at Vinny & Charles
Our Birthstone Collection sits alongside our gemstone wedding rings, and every piece is hand crafted in Perth.
- Hand crafted: every ring is made by us in Perth.
- Free express shipping: on all orders.
- 5 trees planted: with every order.
- Product Satisfaction Guarantee: backed by our guarantee on every order.
- Reviews: 545 reviews, with 99% rated five stars.
Browse Rings or Talk to Us
Tourmaline will always make for a beautiful engagement ring, a great alternative to diamonds. If you're not afraid of having a splash of colours that are bordering between fine and exotic - you will never go wrong in choosing this mystical gem to symbolise your story of love.
Browse our engagement rings and order online, or explore alternative stones for engagement rings if you are still deciding. Questions? Call us on +61 8 6323 8494.
