Watermelon tourmaline is a unique and stunning gemstone that is prized for its distinctive coloring and natural beauty. This gemstone is named for its resemblance to a slice of watermelon, with a pink center surrounded by a green outer layer. Here is everything you need to know about watermelon tourmaline.
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What is Watermelon Tourmaline?
Watermelon tourmaline is a variety of tourmaline, which is a mineral that comes in many different colors. It is a type of bicolor tourmaline, which means that it has two distinct colors in one stone. The pink center of the watermelon tourmaline is caused by the presence of manganese, while the green outer layer is caused by the presence of iron.
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Where is Watermelon Tourmaline Found?
Watermelon tourmaline is found in many different parts of the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, and the United States. One of the most famous sources of watermelon tourmaline is the state of Maine, where the gemstone is found in the pegmatite mines of the state’s western mountains.
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What are the Properties of Watermelon Tourmaline?
Watermelon tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, which means that it is a durable and long-lasting gemstone. It has a trigonal crystal system and is typically found in elongated or flattened crystals. Watermelon tourmaline is also pleochroic, which means that it can appear different colors when viewed from different angles.
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What are the Uses of Watermelon Tourmaline?
Watermelon tourmaline is primarily used in jewelry, where it is prized for its unique coloring and natural beauty. It is often cut into cabochons or faceted gemstones, and is used in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The gemstone is also believed to have healing properties, and is used in crystal healing and other alternative health practices.
In conclusion, watermelon tourmaline is a unique and stunning gemstone that is prized for its distinctive coloring and natural beauty. Whether you are drawn to the gemstone for its appearance or for its purported healing properties, it is a gemstone that is sure to capture your imagination and add a touch of natural beauty to your collection.
