Ultimate Pink Tourmaline Gemstone Handbook

Following its formal identification, pink tourmaline has gained tremendous popularity. It is the birthstone for October and is also considered a thoughtful gift for couples celebrating their eighth wedding anniversary. Traditionally, this gem is believed to enhance emotional wellbeing and has strong associations with the heart. Its durability makes it suitable for various types of jewelry, from pendants to engagement rings featuring pink tourmaline and diamonds. The stone’s rosy tint adds a touch of femininity to any attire, making it a favorite among jewelry enthusiasts.

Pink Tourmaline Shapes

Pink tourmaline is available in various shapes, from elongated crystals to more grouped and thicker formations. The gem can be either transparent or opaque and is found in multiple hues. As a result, the shapes of pink tourmaline range widely, with emerald and baguette cuts being particularly popular.

Long cuts such as the baguette can align closely with tourmaline’s natural elongated form, minimizing waste. Other common shapes include emerald, round, cushion, and oval. Fancy shapes like pears and marquises are less prevalent, although the heart shape beautifully complements the stone’s pink coloration. Occasionally, pink tourmaline exhibits a cat’s eye effect, in which case the stone is typically cut as a cabochon to highlight this unique feature.

Pink Tourmaline Sizes

Pink tourmaline is available in a range of sizes and is commonly measured in carats. To enhance its color, the gem may be cut either deeply or shallowly. Deep-cut tourmalines can seem smaller than shallow-cut ones, so basing your choice on actual size measurements rather than visual appearance is advisable.

Among pink gemstones, tourmaline is one of the few available in larger sizes. However, locating high-quality natural pink tourmaline can be challenging, as most specimens are relatively small. Large solitaire pink tourmalines look stunning in rings, while smaller, shallow-cut stones are often used in bracelets.

Pink Tourmaline Colors

The color spectrum of pink tourmaline ranges from pale to intense hot pink. Some specimens are so red they can be mistaken for rubies, once the most sought-after hues. Presently, the value of pink tourmaline is largely determined by its color saturation.

Softer, lighter shades of pink are generally less desirable, although over-saturation can render the gem opaque, making it equally unappealing. Occasionally, the gem can exhibit additional hues like orange or red, leading to bi-color or tri-color variations when these colors form a pattern. While rich, even-toned pink tourmalines are highly favored today, the wide range of available shades allows you to find one that matches your preference.

Pink Tourmaline Clarity

As with many colored gems, pink tourmaline does not have a standardized grading system. Inclusions and flaws are common, often visible to the naked eye due to the liquid-rich environments where tourmaline forms. These inclusions create elongated tube-like structures within the stone.

If the color of the stone is rich and vivid enough, these inclusions can be disregarded, except for white or gray inclusions, which significantly diminish its value. When selecting a pink tourmaline, aim for a stone with minimal visible inclusions and flaws.

Pink Tourmaline Sourcing

Pink tourmaline is relatively abundant and is sourced globally. Historically, the United States (specifically Maine and California) was a leading supplier during the mid to late 1800s. Tiffany & Co played a pivotal role in introducing pink tourmaline as an American gemstone into the global market.

Today, Brazil, Mozambique, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Namibia host significant pink tourmaline mines. Brazil and Namibia are known for producing the most desirable stones. Namibian pink tourmaline, in particular, is renowned for its vivid and intense color.

Pink Tourmaline Certification

Typically, pink tourmaline stones are not certified, but there are ways to verify their authenticity.

Artificial gemstones often use glass, so watch for bubble-like inclusions, a telltale sign of glass. Crystal-clear stones may also be synthetic, as natural tourmaline rarely lacks inclusions. Under artificial light, genuine pink tourmaline often displays a brown undertone, rather than remaining perfectly pink.

Pink Tourmaline Treatments

Pink tourmaline is rarely treated. Some stones may undergo heat treatment to deepen their color, but this practice is uncommon. Given the natural variety of pink tourmaline hues, treatment for color enhancement is usually unnecessary.

Beyond heat treatment, irradiation may be used to enhance color. Both treatments are nearly undetectable, even to professional labs.

Pink Tourmaline Buying Guide

When purchasing pink tourmaline, color is a primary consideration, but several other factors should also be taken into account.

Start with Your Budget. Establish a budget and stick to it. With the array of colors, sizes, and shapes available for pink tourmaline, you’re almost certain to find an option within your price range.

Select a Shape. Elongated, rectangular, or square shapes are most common for pink tourmaline. Fancy shapes also have their appeal. Choose one that matches your taste and jewelry design.

Choose a Size. Pink tourmaline ranges in size, from small earrings to large stones ideal for engagement rings.

Prioritize Quality. Seek out intensely colored stones with even saturation and minimal inclusions or flaws. Ensure the cut enhances the stone’s radiance.

In-Store or Online? Both options have their merits. Online shopping offers a broader selection, though you can’t inspect the stone in person. Most online retailers provide clear images and precise details. Verify their return policy and reputation before purchasing.