Tourmaline is a semi-precious gemstone that has gained popularity over the years due to its unique color palette. From vivid greens and blues to vibrant pinks and reds, tourmaline comes in a wide variety of colors that make it a popular choice for jewelry. However, among all the colors, one particular shade is considered to be the rarest of them all: Paraiba tourmaline. Here are some points that explain why Paraiba tourmaline is so rare:
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Origin
Paraiba tourmaline is named after the Brazilian state of Paraiba, where it was first discovered in the 1980s. The gemstone was found in a small copper mine in the state, and its unique color immediately caught the attention of gem collectors and jewelry designers. Since then, Paraiba tourmaline has also been found in other countries, including Mozambique and Nigeria, but the Brazilian variety is still considered to be the most valuable.
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Color
The color of Paraiba tourmaline is what makes it so unique and rare. It has a vivid blue-green hue that is often described as “neon” or “electric”. This color is caused by the presence of copper and manganese in the gemstone, which give it its distinctive glow. The intensity of the color can vary depending on the size and quality of the gemstone, but even the smallest Paraiba tourmalines have a noticeable blue-green tint.
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Size
Another reason why Paraiba tourmaline is so rare is that it is often found in small sizes. Unlike other varieties of tourmaline that can be quite large, Paraiba tourmaline is usually found in sizes under one carat. This makes it harder to find and more expensive to purchase. Larger specimens of Paraiba tourmaline are extremely rare and can fetch astronomical prices at auctions and gem shows.
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Rarity
Overall, the combination of origin, color, and size makes Paraiba tourmaline one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The gemstone is only found in a few locations, and the demand for it far exceeds the supply. This has resulted in Paraiba tourmaline being one of the most expensive gemstones on the market, with prices often reaching tens of thousands of dollars per carat.
In conclusion, Paraiba tourmaline is the rarest color of tourmaline due to its origin, color, size, and overall rarity. Its unique blue-green hue and small size make it a highly coveted gemstone among collectors and enthusiasts alike. While it may be hard to come by and expensive to purchase, owning a piece of Paraiba tourmaline jewelry is sure to make a statement and become a treasured possession for years to come.
