Red Tourmaline, when of gem quality, is referred to as rubellite. This gemstone is a beryllium aluminum silicate mineral, crystallizing both as vertical hexagonal pillars and in mass form. Often found in quartz matrices, the quest for its authenticity and the allure of its energy remains ever poignant.
Red tourmaline is a type of Elbaite, which can come in every hue imaginable. Sometimes, it goes by the name ‘Rubellite’ in the jewelry market, especially when it’s got that deep, striking color. If you’ve ever seen a red tourmaline nestled close to clear or smoky quartz, for example, then you’d be looking at what is known as red tourmaline quartz.
Whether you’re working on love in a relationship, dealing with trauma, or bouncing back from a breakup, this stone has got your back.
Red tourmaline meaning
Understanding love: On a personal level, red tourmaline enhances our understanding of love and pushes us to express love creatively. It’s said to boost sociability and adaptability while making sure you remain tactful. For women, especially, this stone offers emotional strength. It’s also believed to enhance your sense of smell and even amplify attraction by increasing pheromone perception. If legends are to be believed, wearing red tourmaline might not only enhance your aesthetic appeal but also increase your chances of finding love. Given its moniker, “The Stone of the Perfected Heart,” its connections to love and companionship are profound.
Emotional healing: The energy is like being around your best friend – warm, inviting, and comforting. It promotes trust, strengthens friendships, and adds zest to romantic relationships. The gem reminds us that relationships can be fleeting, but love and memories remain eternal. For those who’ve been hurt or feel distant, this stone acts like a lighthouse, guiding you back to warmth and positivity.
Mental healing: Seeing the world positively is what it may promote. Instead of jumping to negative conclusions, the stone may calm you and encourage understanding. It’s like a wise old friend reminding you that everyone has their struggles. If someone upsets you, this stone promotes forgiveness, emphasizing that showing mercy isn’t a sign of weakness but strength.
Protector: In spiritual practices, it’s said to be a protector, especially during rituals. It’s also been used in ancient divination practices to identify problems or show the right path forward.
Spiritual healing: If love is what you’re aiming for, this is said to be your go-to. This stone forms a bridge between your heart and grounding energies, teaching us the essence of true love. Love isn’t just one-sided or stagnant, as it flows and moves between hearts, reminding us to find balance. It’s all about having courage, doing what’s right, and achieving our aims without stepping on others.
Stone of perfected heart: Rooted in ancient legends, red tourmaline is often referred to as the “Stone of the Perfected Heart.” This symbolizes its ability to foster love, passion, and emotional healing. Tourmaline, having supposedly risen through the earth and collected the colors of the rainbow, carries with it energies of joy, creativity, and love.
Where can you find red tourmaline?
This gem typically comes from underground mines, often found with clear and smoky quartz.
When it forms, think of a volcanic explosion – molten lava and all. When this liquid magma cools down, it becomes a rock, and during this process, an acid made of borosilicate changes from a gas/liquid state to a solid. When this happens, we get tourmaline. A lot of them are found in Pegmatite, which is a type of rock formed often underwater.
Many specimens hail from Brazil, particularly the renowned Minas Gerais. However, the quest for superior quality extends to Africa and the iconic tourmaline mines in Maine and Southern California.
Red tourmaline properties
- Chemical Composition: Complex boron silicate mineral. The rich red color is due to the presence of manganese, while lithium can also be present
- Hardness: On the Mohs scale of hardness, it ranks 7-7.5, making it fairly resistant to scratches
- Crystal System: It has a trigonal crystal system, and often forms vertically elongated three-sided prisms
- Refractive Index: Ranges from 1.616 to 1.650. This contributes to its brilliant sparkle when faceted
- Specific Gravity: This typically ranges from 3.03 to 3.25
- Luster: Typically exhibits a vitreous luster
- Streak: White streak
- Cleavage: Indistinct cleavage
- Pyroelectric and Piezoelectric Properties: Red Tourmaline generates an electric charge when it is heated (pyroelectric) or when pressure is applied to it (piezoelectric)
Is red tourmaline rare?
Yes, red tourmaline, especially when of gem-quality and referred to as rubellite, is relatively rare compared to other colors of tourmaline.
Tourmaline itself is a diverse group of minerals, coming in a wide range of colors. The red and pink varieties, particularly those of deep and vivid hues, are considered more uncommon than, for example, the black or green varieties.
Simply put, the colors, intensity, clarity and source will all affect the demand.
Red tourmaline chakra
Rubellite Tourmaline, often referred to as red tourmaline, is deeply connected with the heart – it embodies passion, love, and life. It doesn’t just resonate with our heart chakra but extends its connection to the vast universe. Its vibrant blend of pink and ruby red gives it this unique energy.
Interestingly, this stone doesn’t only connect with the heart, but it also resonates with the root chakra. This makes it a source of energy and life force, helping to heal emotions. It’s perfect for people looking to rekindle their passion and joy in life, especially in relationships. Plus, it can aid in forming loving, devoted commitments.
Red tourmaline history and origin
Tourmaline, a gemstone often celebrated for its many hues, has a history as vibrant as its appearance. Yet, tracing its lineage through ancient stories presents challenges, given that its varying colors would often lead it to be mistaken for other gemstones. In ancient texts, distinguishing between red or pink tourmaline and other similarly-colored gemstones, like Garnets, Rubies, or Spinels, would have been a challenge. It’s the reason you can’t find much about it. However, some history does remain.
For instance, the name “Tourmaline” has its roots in Sri Lanka, derived from the word turmali, translating to a “stone with mixed colors” or “gem pebbles.” The vibrant Elbaite Tourmalines of Sri Lanka might have played a significant role in the etymological history of the gemstone.
For example, the Dutch East India Company, on its voyages to Sri Lanka during the 17th century, would have been instrumental in introducing Elbaite Tourmalines to Europe. A 1632 lapidary’s description of Tourmaline as the “stone of wisdom” offers one of the earliest testimonies to its revered status and purported healing powers.
Red tourmaline stone price
The price will vary on so
many factors, which will include color, clarity, weight, cut, shape, origin and treatment, to name a few. Market demand can also play a role.
The price of red tourmaline can greatly range from as low as $50 per carat for lower quality stones to over $1,000+ per carat for top-grade specimens. However, prices can change over time, and the exact price will also depend on the seller’s markup, retail location, and other factors.
This is a hard question to answer as there are so many variables to consider.
Red tourmaline in jewelry
Red tourmaline’s striking color makes it favorite among gem enthusiasts and jewelry designers. The vivid red and pink hues stand out and are particularly loved for romantic occasions like anniversaries or Valentine’s Day. And, while it’s not as renowned as rubies or sapphires, its unique charm has garnered it a loyal following among gem collectors and those who seek a distinctive gemstone.
Here’s an overview as to how you can find it in jewelry pieces:
- Rings: Red Tourmaline engagement rings or cocktail rings are not uncommon. The gem’s association with the heart and love makes it a great choice for engagement or promise rings.
- Earrings: Its vibrant color makes for stunning earrings, be it simple studs or elaborate drop earrings.
- Pendants and Necklaces: Whether set solo or surrounded by diamonds or other gems, a red tourmaline pendant can be a showstopper.
- Bracelets: While less common, you might find Rubellite set in tennis bracelets or as the centerpiece in bangles.
How to spot a fake red tourmaline
The rarity and price of rubellite has unfortunately prompted a rise in counterfeit or modified stones in the market.
To spot a fake it can be done, but you will want to look out for a few things.
Size: Genuine red tourmaline, due to its categorization as a “fine mineral,” is usually petite, rarely exceeding 2 inches. These precious specimens are typically safeguarded in shadow boxes or display cases.
Color discrepancies: Color variations arise due to Earth’s natural radiation and shifts in its chemical composition. The evolution from pink to red stems from the gradual integration of Lithium and Manganese. To verify its authenticity, you will want to examine the stone’s edges to spot any overlooked sections from artificial treatment. Also, study the gem’s red hue for any inconsistencies.
In the end, trust your instincts. Remember that nature has its unique signature, which is often noticeable at a glance.
Cleansing red tourmaline
Cleansing is crucial to ensure it remains energetically pure. You can do this by:
- Water: Hold your stone under running water, be it a tap or natural source, and intend for all negativity to be cleansed away.
- Sunlight or Moonlight: Allow your Red Tourmaline to bask in the light of the sun or moon for a few hours.
- Smudging: Pass the stone through the smoke of sage or Palo Santo.
- Sound: Use a singing bowl or tuning fork to cleanse it with sound vibrations.
Note: Always handle your gemstones with care and always ensure any method used does not harm the integrity of the stone.
Attributes at a Glance:
- Chakras: Root and Heart
- Elements: Water and Earth
- Numerology: 1, 2, 4, and 5
- Zodiac Signs: Libra, Sagittarius, and Scorpio
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