Paraiba Tourmaline – The Gemstone That Captivated the World

What Makes Paraiba Tourmaline Unique?

The most remarkable feature of Paraiba tourmaline is its intense, glowing colour, which ranges from vivid turquoise and swimming pool blue to greenish-blue and even violet. This otherworldly glow is due to the presence of copper, an element not typically found in tourmalines in such concentrations. Manganese may also be present and can modify the hue, especially in stones that lean more toward violet or purple tones.

The presence of copper, and occasionally traces of gold and silver, gives Paraiba tourmalines their signature glow. When the gemstone is cut and polished, it almost appears to be lit from within, a quality that cannot be replicated in other tourmalines or gemstones.

Mining Locations: From Brazil to the World

Although the original Paraiba tourmalines came exclusively from Brazil, particularly from the Batalha mine in Paraíba state, those deposits were quickly depleted due to overwhelming demand. In the early 2000s, similar tourmalines with copper content were discovered in Mozambique and Nigeria. These African stones share many of the same qualities as their Brazilian counterparts and are now also sold under the term “Paraiba tourmaline,” often with a regional qualifier (e.g. “Mozambican Paraiba”).

While Brazilian Paraibas remain the most prized due to their historic significance and often slightly more vivid saturation, African Paraibas have helped meet global demand and have brought the gem into a more accessible price range though high-quality stones still command premium prices.

Rarity and Value

Paraiba tourmaline is incredibly rare. It’s estimated that for every 10,000 diamonds mined, only one Paraiba tourmaline is found. This rarity, combined with the gemstone’s vivid color, contributes to its high market value. Top-quality Paraibas can command a five figure sum per carat, especially if they are larger stones with vivid saturation and minimal inclusions.

Paraiba Tourmaline Jewellery

The gemstone is often used in fine jewellery, set in rings, earrings, and pendants, and is typically faceted to enhance its natural brilliance. Because of its limited supply, Paraiba tourmaline is also a popular choice for investment among gem collectors.

Fun Facts and Cultural Impact

A Modern Marvel: Paraiba tourmaline is one of the few gemstones discovered in the 20th century to achieve global fame so quickly. Within just a few years of its discovery, it was featured in prestigious jewellery exhibitions and became a favourite among designers.

Copper’s Unique Role

It’s one of the only tourmalines in which copper is the primary colouring agent. The presence of copper was confirmed through spectroscopic analysis shortly after its discovery, redefining how gemologists viewed tourmaline classification.

Use as a Birthstone

While tourmaline is already an October birthstone, the Paraiba variety is often seen as a more exotic and luxurious alternative to traditional pink or green tourmaline options.

Celebrity Appeal

Due to its rarity and visual impact, Paraiba tourmaline has been spotted on red carpets and in high-profile auctions, worn by celebrities and showcased in custom haute joaillerie pieces. Celebrities such as; Halle Berry, Jennifer Lopez, Salma Hayek & Katy Perry have all been spotted wearing Paraiba tourmaline jewellery.

Paraiba tourmaline is a gemstone that combines beauty, science, and rarity into a dazzling package. From its humble origins in the hills of Brazil to its current status as one of the most coveted gems in the world, it represents the magic of nature and the allure of the unknown. Whether set in a collector’s vault or adorning a piece of fine jewelry, the electric glow of Paraiba tourmaline continues to fascinate and enchant, making it a true gem of the modern age.

Interested?

if you are interested in owning your own Paraiba tourmaline RING jewellers are able to source them for you thanks to our amazing contacts. Despite the extreme rarity of these unique gemstones we can find you your dream stone, design & stunnnig piece of jewellery around it, & then make it a reality in our own workshops. Drop us a line or give us a call for a quote.