Tourmaline: the Ultimate Jewellery Guide

Tourmaline is one of the most vibrant and versatile gemstones in the world. Found in an extraordinary array of colours — from vivid pinks and lush greens to serene blues and even rainbow-like combinations — no two pieces are ever quite alike. Its dazzling variety makes tourmaline a perfect choice for jewellery lovers who want something expressive, unique, and full of character.

History & Symbolism of Tourmaline

The name tourmaline comes from the Sinhalese word toramalli, meaning “mixed gems,” an apt description for a stone that appears in such a wide spectrum of shades. Ancient Egyptians believed tourmaline travelled up from the Earth’s core and passed through a rainbow, absorbing its colours along the way.

Today, tourmaline is one of the birthstones for October and is associated with creativity, emotional balance, and protection. It is often thought to harmonise energies, making it not just a gemstone of beauty but also one of meaning and positivity.

Varieties of Tourmaline

Each colour of tourmaline has its own charm and symbolism. Pink tourmaline is romantic and feminine, linked with love and compassion. Green tourmaline, also called verdelite, represents vitality and confidence. Blue tourmaline, or indicolite, is rare and serene, associated with peace and clarity of thought. Watermelon tourmaline, with its striking pink-and-green bi-colour zones, is one of the most eye-catching varieties. Meanwhile, black tourmaline, or schorl, is a grounding stone traditionally believed to repel negativity.

Tourmaline Jewellery Styles

Because of its endless colour palette, tourmaline shines in many different jewellery designs. Pink tourmaline rings are a thoughtful choice for engagements or October birthdays, while watermelon tourmaline pendants are bold, artistic statement pieces. Tourmaline earrings — whether subtle studs or elegant drops — bring a touch of colour to any outfit, while multi-stone bracelets capture its full spectrum in playful, creative designs. Vintage-inspired jewellery often features pink and green tourmalines, highlighting their enduring popularity across generations.

Choosing a Quality Tourmaline

When choosing a tourmaline, colour is the most important factor. The most valuable stones have vivid, saturated hues, with pinks, greens, and blues being particularly sought after. Clarity matters too — most tourmalines are eye-clean, though small inclusions are natural. Transparent stones with high clarity are especially prized.

The cut of a tourmaline enhances its colour, with oval, cushion, pear, and emerald shapes being common choices. Some stones are cut to highlight their natural colour zoning, especially bi-colour varieties. Tourmaline is also available in larger carat sizes, offering dramatic statement pieces, though rare colours like Paraiba or indicolite can command higher values.

Caring for Tourmaline Jewellery

Tourmaline is durable enough for everyday wear, ranking 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, but it does benefit from gentle handling. Clean your jewellery with warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners or sudden temperature changes. Store tourmaline pieces separately from harder stones to prevent scratches, and if your gem is set in prongs, have it checked periodically to ensure it remains secure.

Final Thoughts

Tourmaline is a gemstone like no other — expressive, colourful, and full of personality. Whether it’s a vibrant pink ring, a soothing green pendant, a rare blue treasure, or a rainbow-hued bracelet, each piece of tourmaline tells its own story. With its dazzling variety and deep symbolism, it’s a perfect choice for October birthdays, meaningful gifts, or simply as a joyful celebration of colour.

At Hallmark the Jewellers, we invite you to explore our curated collection of tourmaline rings, earrings, necklaces, and birthstone gifts — each one chosen to showcase the natural magic of this extraordinary gemstone.

Hallmark: The Ultimate Jewellery Guide | Hallmark the Jewellers