Tourmaline derives from the Sinhalese term "turamali", which translates as "stone of mixed colors". The very name refers to the unique spectrum of colors displayed by this gemstone, which is second to none in the realm of
precious stones. One of the most versatile of gemstones, tourmaline is available in every color, from colorless to black. It can show every tone from pastel to dark, and can exhibit various colors in the same stone.
The many different colors of tourmaline mean that this stone can easily be mistaken for just about any other gemstone. Many stones in the Russian Crown Jewels from the 17th century once thought to be
rubies are actually tourmalines.
Tourmaline is of high clarity, has very few inclusions and is quite durable (rating of 7-7.5 on the
Mohs hardness scale), all of which make tourmaline a very attractive buy. Large sizes are affordable as well.
Vivid pink to red
tourmaline, often with a violet tinge, is known as
rubellite. It is one of the most valuable tourmaline colors, particularly when its color resembles that of fine ruby.