Tourmaline is a striking and versatile gemstone celebrated for its wide range of colors and remarkable durability. Its name originates from the Sinhalese word turmali, meaning “stone of mixed colors,” reflecting its extraordinary variety, from deep greens and blues to pinks, reds, yellows, and even bi- or tri-colored combinations like the famous watermelon tourmaline.

Composed of a complex boron silicate structure, tourmaline often displays unique optical effects, including pleochroism (color changes when viewed from different angles). Certain varieties, such as Paraiba tourmaline, exhibit vibrant neon hues due to traces of copper, making them exceptionally valuable.

With a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, tourmaline is suitable for everyday jewelry. It is also prized for its metaphysical properties, believed to promote balance, protection, and creativity. Its endless color palette and rich history make tourmaline a favorite among collectors and jewelers worldwide.