A Guide to Tourmalines

Tourmaline is one of fine jewellery’s most versatile gems, found in an extraordinary spectrum from neon turquoise to vivid green, lagoon-blue and raspberry red. It’s an October birthstone (alongside opal) and a classic 8th-anniversary gift, prized for colour and character.

Why we love it

We love tourmaline for its character and versatility. It takes a superb polish, shows brilliance, and suits everything from minimalist solitaires to sculptural, high-jewellery statements. Large, well-formed crystals allow striking cuts, while unique internal patterns add personality. It invites storytelling, celebrates craftsmanship, and makes bespoke design feel individual and memorable.

Colours & varieties you’ll see at Cheshires

Green tourmaline: from yellow-green to blue-green; crisp, refreshing tones.
Pink to red (rubellite): saturated raspberry to red, romantic and bold.
Blue (indicolite): rare teal to deep blue; serene, modern.
Paraíba (copper-bearing): famed for “neon” blue-green; originally Brazil, now also Nigeria and Mozambique.

What determines the price?

Colour: look for even, vivid saturation (the “glow” prized in Paraíba is especially sought after).
Cut: a precise cut enhances saturation and life; elongated shapes can emphasise tourmaline’s natural crystal form.
Carat weight: Colour quality often improves as stones get bigger. Larger eye clean stones, especially blue and red, are much rarer.
Origin: Brazilian stones may command a premium; African sources also produce exceptional material.

Is tourmaline right for an engagement ring?

Tourmaline can be used for an engagement ring, but it needs more care than a diamond, sapphire, or ruby. With a hardness around 7 to 7.5 and moderate toughness, it is more prone to surface wear and chips over years of daily use. If you choose tourmaline, opt for a protective design such as a bezel or a secure halo with a lower profile.

Care & styling

Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonics.

Tourmaline pairs effortlessly with platinum or yellow gold. Cool blues and greens sing in white metals; rubellite and pinks glow in yellow.

Quick facts

Birthstone: October (with opal)
Anniversary: 8th
Hardness: 7–7.5
Notable sources: Brazil, Mozambique, Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Special features: pleochroism; colour zoning; copper-bearing “Paraíba” blue-greens

How we help

At Cheshires, we hand select each stone for hue, clarity and cut, then design settings that protect and flatter the colour, whether you’re choosing a refined green cushion halo, a vibrant bright pink stud, or a statement paraíba pendant. Book an appointment to view our curated selection or discuss a bespoke piece made in our Birmingham Jewellery Quarter workshop.