Paraiba Tourmaline: the Ultimate Jewellery Guide
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Few gemstones have the power to stop you in your tracks quite like Paraiba tourmaline. With its electrifying blue-green glow — often described as “neon” or “swimming pool blue” — this gemstone is one of the rarest and most valuable in the world.
History & Symbolism of Paraiba Tourmaline
Discovered in the late 1980s in Paraíba, Brazil, this gemstone caused a sensation with its never-before-seen colour. Its vivid glow comes from trace amounts of copper and manganese, setting it apart from all other tourmalines.
Because of its rarity, Paraiba tourmaline has come to symbolise uniqueness, individuality, and luxury. Many consider it a stone of inspiration, energy, and creativity — a gem as vibrant as life itself.
Colours & Varieties
Although famous for its electric blue, Paraiba tourmaline comes in several shades:
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Neon Blue: The classic, most sought-after colour.
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Turquoise Green: A tropical hue with radiant intensity.
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Blue-Green Mixes: Stunning variations between ocean and lagoon tones.
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African Paraiba-Type Tourmaline: Discovered later in Mozambique and Nigeria, with similar copper-bearing brilliance.
Popular Paraiba Tourmaline Jewellery Styles
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Paraiba Solitaire Rings – Letting the neon colour take centre stage.
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Paraiba & Diamond Halos – Adding even more sparkle to an already dazzling gem.
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Statement Pendants – Vibrant and unforgettable.
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Luxury Earrings – A collector’s dream, often set in platinum or white gold.
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Bespoke High Jewellery – Paraiba is a favourite in one-of-a-kind designer pieces.
How to Choose a Quality Paraiba Tourmaline
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Colour: The more intense the neon blue or green, the higher the value.
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Clarity: Some inclusions are expected, but stones with eye-clean transparency are exceptional.
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Cut: Oval and cushion cuts are common, designed to maximise colour and brilliance.
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Carat: Paraibas are often small (under 1ct). Larger, vivid stones are extremely rare — and command premium prices.
Caring for Paraiba Tourmaline Jewellery
With a hardness of 7–7.5 on the Mohs scale, Paraiba is durable but not indestructible.
Care Tips:
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Clean gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
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Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, which may damage the stone.
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Store separately to avoid scratches from harder gems.
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Remove rings before heavy activity or contact with chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Paraiba tourmaline is not just a gemstone — it’s a phenomenon. With its neon glow and unmatched rarity, it represents the pinnacle of modern gemstone collecting. Whether chosen as an engagement ring centrepiece or a once-in-a-lifetime gift, Paraiba is a stone that truly defines luxury.
At Hallmark the Jewellers, we celebrate the extraordinary. Explore our selection of rare and vibrant gemstones, including the unforgettable Paraiba tourmaline.