Watermelon Tourmaline

Gemstone: Watermelon Tourmaline Birthstone Month: Tourmaline is one of the two gemstones associated with the month of October. Zodiac: Being one of the two accepted birthstones for the month of October, Tourmaline is one of the zodiac gemstones for Libra and Scorpio. Chemical Symbol: The general symbol for Tourmaline is (Na, Ca)(Li, Mg, Al)(Al, Fe, Mn)6(BO3)3(Si6O18)(OH)4 Chemical Make-up: Tourmaline is made up of the complex Aluminum Borosilicate element, and depending upon the color of the gemstone, one or more of a number of metal ions, usually Iron, Magnesium and Lithium. History & Lore: The name Tourmaline is widely accepted as being derived from the Singhalese expression tura mali, which when translated means “stone of many or mixed colors”. Tourmaline is often referred to as the rainbow gemstone, due to the huge amount of colors that it is available in. This was certainly believed by the ancient Egyptians who believed that when Tourmaline traveled from its home in the earth's core to the surface, it did so along a rainbow, which subsequently gifted the gemstone with all of the colors of the rainbow. Tourmalines exhibit piezoelectricity and when these stones become warm they become electrically charged – positively at one end and negatively at the other, acting like a magnet and strong enough to attract small particles of dust or ash. It is for this reason that the Dutch of old used Tourmalines to clean their pipes!

As with most gemstones, ancient civilizations credited Tourmaline gems with magical and mystical powers, including having the power to guard against danger and misfortune. Tourmalines are said to have an especially strong influence over friendship and love, lending permanence and stability to both. Tourmaline gems help to amplify psychic ability / energy and are an excellent aid to increasing self-confidence and understanding. Tourmaline is believed to help assist with tranquil sleep, calm nerves, improve concentration and creative processes and to be an aid to curing cancer. Watermelon Tourmalines believed to be particularly effective in helping one recover from emotional problems. It is also believed to have the combined metaphysical properties of both Green and Pink Tourmaline. It is believed that Green Tourmaline is particularly useful with energizing and rejuvenating the wearer, which can stimulate creativity and bring success and prosperity. Pink Tourmaline is believed to represent harmony, joy of life, and lust. It vibrates the heart chakra allowing the wearer to open themselves to many levels of love. It is also believed to inspire spirituality and creativity well enhancing the one's willpower. Availability: Watermelon Tourmaline is a unique gemstone highly valued by collectors. The vast majority of the stones mined tend to be heavily included, with the clean gems being much more rare and naturally more expensive. Sources: There are known Tourmaline deposits throughout the world including, Afghanistan, Africa, Brazil, Italy, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Myanmar (Burma), Nigeria, Pakistan, Siberia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and the United States (California, Connecticut, Maine and Utah). The majority of Watermelon Tourmalines on the market today are mined in Newry, Maine by the Plumbago Mining Corporation®. Evaluation: Tourmaline (regardless of variety) is rated at 7 – 7.5 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness and as such is suitable for all jewelry uses and is considered durable enough to be worn everyday. Found in an amazing variety, the sheer number of available Tourmaline colors is second to none and unmatched by any other gemstone. Tourmalines can be found in shades of blue, black, brown, colorless, green, orange, pink, red, yellow and other colors in varying shades and hues, varying from completely transparent to opaque. In addition to this there are also known occurrences of bi-color, tri-color, multi-color and “Cat's Eye” Tourmalines, ensuring that the Tourmaline truly is a gemstone that is available in a color to suit all styles and tastes. A Tourmaline gemstone viewed from different angles will result in differing color intensities being visible. The only one thing that you can be sure of is that the deepest coloration will always be shown along the stone's main axis. When selecting a Tourmaline, go with the color that you like but generally try to steer clear of any stone that is cut too dark. Watermelon Tourmalines are bi-colored stones with a green border enveloping a red center and often obscure or heavily included. Eye-clean stones are one-of-a-kind and are highly sought after by gem collectors and connoisseur. Watermelon Tourmalines are presently enjoying strong demand, but for the moment pricing remains reasonable. When considering buying a Watermelon or any other Bi-color Tourmaline for that matter, pay particular attention to color separation and be sure to select a stone that does not suffer from numerous heavy inclusions as these will have a detrimental effect on the overall worth of the gemstone. Common Cuts: Owing to the fact that Tourmaline crystals are long and narrow in shape Tourmaline gems are most commonly, although not exclusively cut into square or rectangular stepped shapes. Watermelon Tourmalines are often cut into thin slices similar to its namesake. Routine Enhancements: Watermelon Tourmalines are occasionally heat-treated in order to lighten colors and to remove “silk” (a form of natural imperfection / inclusion). Care & Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to clean Tourmaline. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe. Never use chemicals such as hydrofluoric acid or ammonium fluoride to clean Tourmaline because it can erode the stone. Much like many gemstones, Tourmaline should be kept away from prolonged exposure to extremes of heat and light as this can cause permanent color change. Always keep your Watermelon Tourmaline jewelry in a fabric-lined box, away from other jewelry, in order to avoid damage / scratching.

Violet Spinel

Gemstone: Violet Spinel Birthstone Month: Spinel is not associated with any particular birthstone month. Zodiac: Spinel is not associated with any particular zodiac sign. Chemical Symbol: MgAl2O4 Chemical Make-up: Spinel is a Magnesium Aluminum Oxide or Magnesium Aluminate. Violet Spinel is colored by traces of Manganese. History & Lore: It is not known for certain how the name Spinel originated. The most common suggestion is that it is derived from the Latin word 'spina' meaning thorn, a reference to its fiery color and the sharp pointed crystals that are found within some Spinels. Spinels were often referred to as 'balas rubies' in ancient times. 'Balas' or 'Balascia' is a territory in Northern Afghanistan now known as Badakshan, and is where Spinels may have originally been discovered. This area was an active gem-producing region in the Middle Ages, and large beautiful red to pink Spinels that were initially thought to be Rubies were discovered there. These Spinels were also considered the best Rubies of their time! Many royal crown jewels thought to contain rubies that have actually turned out be Spinels. The Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown is a actually a 170 Carat red Spinel. The Timur Ruby that has the engraved names of the Mogul emperors on its face was once thought to be a Ruby as well. This magnificent 352 Carat stone is also in fact a red Spinel, and is now owned by Queen Elizabeth of England. Spinels are associated with love, and help the wearer to put their ego aside, and become devoted to another person. The Spinel also encourages passion and is said to increase the duration of one's life.

Availability: Spinel is relatively unknown to the common consumer, nor has it been marketed by any of the major gem companies. Because of its rarity, if demand was to rise sharply, demand would soon outstrip supply. Sources: Some of the finest quality Violet Spinels are sourced from Sri Lanka (Ceylon). There are also known Spinel deposits in Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Italy, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), Pakistan, Sweden, Tajikistan (part of the former U.S.S.R), Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, the United States, and Vietnam. Evaluation: Spinels are rated at 8 on Moh's Scale of Hardness and are a durable stone that lacks cleavage, making it ideal for all jewelry purposes and well-suited for every day wear. Spinel can be found in an assortment of colors including red, yellow, brown, pink, rose, orange, blue, green, violet, purple, black, and white (colorless). Top quality stones should be deep and rich in color, eye-clean, and without any traces of secondary brown colors. Spinels are a favorite of gem connoisseurs and gem collectors due to their brilliance, hardness, and wide range of beautiful colors. Although Spinel gemstones are a rarity, Spinel makes a beautiful stone for almost any jewelry purpose. Common Cuts: Spinel is a durable stone that lacks cleavage and for this reason it is suitable for all jewelry purposes. It is most often found in oval, round, and cushion cuts and owing to its rarity cannot currently be found in calibrated sizes. Routine Enhancements: There are no known enhancements for Violet Spinel. Care & Cleaning: Spinel is a very durable stone that lacks cleavage making it difficult to chip and scratch. Steam and ultrasonic cleaners are generally considered safe, but they should be used with caution. Avoid household chemicals and prolonged exposure to excessive heat, as this can permanently alter coloration or damage the stone. Spinel can also be cleaned in warm soapy water with a soft brush to remove lingering grease and dirt. Always store your Spinel jewelry in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items so as to avoid damage / scratching.

Violet Sapphire

Gemstone: Violet Sapphire Birthstone Month: Sapphire is the birthstone for the month of September. Zodiac: Sapphire is associated with the zodiac signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Taurus. Chemical Symbol: Al2O3 + Fe2+ & Ti4+ Chemical Make-up: Sapphire is a form of Aluminium Oxide known as Corundum. History & Lore: The name Corundum is believed to originate from either the Indian word kauruntaka, or the Sanskrit word kurivinda. Sapphire, the name for this particular type of Corundum is taken from the Latin word sapphirus, meaning “blue”. It was the belief of the ancient Persians that the Earth actually rested on an enormous Sapphire and that the reflection from this Sapphire was what gave the sky its blue coloration. Sapphire has been the pre-eminent blue gemstone for centuries since. Sapphire is a powerful stone that can take negative emotions and feelings and transform them into peace, love and joy. Sapphire is a very helpful gemstone, often used to treat skin and eye disorders, and to ward off infection. In addition to this, Sapphire has long been regarded as a symbol of constancy and sincerity. Sapphire bestows innocence, truth and good health, and has traditionally been a popular choice amongst Royalty, often having been used in Engagement Rings as an alternative to Diamonds. Sapphire aids the wearer with opening the third-eye chakra, and is an aid to getting inside the sub-conscious mind, as well as being a gemstone said to attract divine favor.

Availability: It is an extremely hard and a very expensive exercise trying to source natural Sapphires that have not been heat-treated as these gems are amongst the most valuable gemstones known today. However, thanks to modern gemstone enhancements and treatments, it is now possible to own wonderful, heat-treated natural Sapphires that are both available to meet demand, and priced at a level making this beautiful gemstone attainable / available to most people. Sources: Whilst today's main sources of Sapphire are Africa, Australia, Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Thailand and the United States (Montana, North Carolina), there are also known Sapphire deposits in Brazil, Cambodia, India, Madagascar, Tanzania and Vietnam. The highest quality and most desirable Sapphires are those that originate in India, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). Sapphires from India and Myanmar (Burma), are highly prized for their pure blue colors and stones from these regions are priced accordingly, often at collectors prices, particularly if there is documentation available to prove the origin of the Sapphire. Sri Lankan (Ceylon) Sapphires are sought after for both their delightful pastel blue and fancy colored variations. Evaluation: Sapphire is rated at 9 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness and is second only to the Diamond in this regard. Sapphires therefore are perfectly suited to all jewelry purposes / uses and is a very hard-wearing, durable and versatile gemstone suitable for everyday wear. When thinking of Sapphire, most people immediately think of, and prefer, a blue gemstone. Sapphire is however actually much more than just a blue gem and is found in various colors including, black, blues, browns, colorless, pink, orange, peach, purple, violet, white and yellow. Violet Sapphire closely resembles fine Amethyst, with a somewhat redder tone. Some Violet Sapphires may have color changing tendencies, changing to blue in daylight. When buying Sapphires, color, clarity and size are the main considerations and those that have the most effect upon overall worth. Pay particular attention to color - look for a stone that displays intense, uniform coloration with no overtones or secondary colors. The purer the color, the more valuable the Sapphire is considered. Common Cuts: Being an extremely hard gemstone that is very well-suited to jewelry purposes, Sapphires are cut into almost all of the known gemstone cuts, with Cushion, Emerald, Pear and Oval cuts being particularly popular. Routine Enhancements: Almost all Sapphires found on the market today have been heat-treated in order to intensify color and remove “silk”, small inclusions present in most natural Sapphires. This method of treatment is considered permanent and color should not fade over time. Care & Cleaning: Sapphires are a very tough, durable gemstone and can safely be cleaned with soapy water or commercial solvent and a brush, and can also safely be cleaned using most modern mechanical cleaners. Do however avoid subjecting Sapphires to prolonged exposure to strong heat or light sources, particularly with regard to heat-treated gems, as prolonged exposure may cause permanent changes in coloration.

Turquoise

Gemstone : Turquoise Birthstone Month : Turquoise is one of the birthstones for the month of December. Zodiac : Turquoise is associated with the zodiac signs of Capricorn and Sagittarius. Chemical Symbol : CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8 · 5H2O Chemical Make-up : Turquoise is an Aluminum Phosphate mineral containing traces of Copper and Iron, which together serve to give this gemstone it's beautiful blue-green coloration. History & Lore : Turquoise is undoubtedly one of the oldest gemstones known to man and has been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs, dating back as far as 3000 BC and has been considered a good luck talisman by many civilizations since including, the Persians, the Aztecs and indigenous American Indian tribes. The Persians in particular believed that the act of a Turquoise changing color was a sign of impending danger. For this reason Turquoise gems were often used to bejewel daggers and turbans as an effective method of warding off the evil eye. It was the belief of the Native Americans that wearing Turquoise jewelry provided a direct connection to the heavens above and sources of abundant water supply below, whereas the Aztecs believed the stone was holy and often adorned their ceremonial masks with Turquoise gemstones. Turquoise provides the bearer / wearer with strong, mutually fruitful relationships and lends self-confidence to individuals who may usually be withdrawn. Moreover, Turquoise is a gemstone that has always been associated with good luck and for this reason was often cherished by travelers wishing to ward off / balance bad luck.

Availability : Turquoise is a readily available gemstone, with known deposits comfortably handling demand. Turquoise is priced at such a level that it is a gemstone that truly is avail able to the masses. Per Carat prices typically range from less than US$1, to over US$50, but rarely more than that. Sources : Today the principal source of Turquoise is mined in the Southwest region of the United States which include Arizona, New Mexico, and Arizona. It is also mined in California, Colorado, and Texas. Other notable locations in which there is Turquoise mining operations are Afghanistan, Australia, Northern Chile (Chuquicamata), China, Cornwall, Iran, Israel, Mexico, Saxony, Silesia, and Turkestan. Evaluation : Turquoise is rated at a 5 to 6 on Moh's Scale of Hardness and because it is a reasonably soft gemstone, care should be taken with it to avoid scratching. Though the most valued of Turquoise has a sky blue color, it can carry various shades of green to yellowish grey. This blue color is created from traces of copper, while the green shades are created from traces of Iron or Chromium. Another attribute to this gemstones value is the characteristic trait known as spiderwebbing. This occurs when iron oxide fills in cracks in the Turquoise. There is no patter to spiderwebbing and it generally appears as light grey to black veins within the stone, crossing, curving and ending abruptly. When purchasing Turquoise you should be aware of the treatments it has received and also should be weary of fakes such as the mineral chrysocolla which have so commonly been found on the market today. Common Cuts : Turquoise gemstones are most commonly fashioned into Cabochons or Beads. Routine Enhancements : Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone that can be prone to breaking and for this reason it is often treated. The treatment most commonly carried out is a waxing or hardening process that lends the stone more durability and longevity. Another treatment that is sometimes carried out is color enhancement. Having a natural Turquoise heat- treated can increase its value, but having a natural Turquoise color treated is detrimental to the market value of the stone. Care & Cleaning : Being that Turquoise is a reasonably soft gemstone, cleaning is best done with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals as they may destroy the integrity of the gemstone. Turquoise is also light sensitive, so prolonged exposure to strong / direct light sources (including sunlight) should be avoided in order to avoid discoloration / color changes.

Tsavorite Garnet

Gemstone: Tsavorite Garnet Birthstone Month: Garnet is the gemstone for the month of January. Zodiac: Garnet is associated with the zodiac sign of Aquarius. Chemical Symbol: Ca3Al2(SiO4)3 Chemical Make-up: Tsavorite is a member of Grossular Garnet family of gemstones, and is made up of aluminum, calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium, manganese, titanium and vanadium. It is the presence of vanadium / chromium that gifts Tsavorite Garnet with its green coloration. History & Lore: The word Grossular is derived a Latin word meaning “gross”, or large in size”. The name Garnet is taken from the Latin word granatium, which means “pomegranate” and it is generally believed that this association was a result of the Garnet crystals being similar in size and shape to the seeds of the pomegranate fruit. Whilst undoubtedly millions and millions of years old, Tsavorite Garnet is a relatively recently discovered gemstone (circa 1967), whose discovery is attributed to the British geologist Campbell R. Brides. Initial export problems delayed the worldwide “launch”of this beautiful gemstone, but this was eventually overcome and in 1974 Tiffany & Co. began marketing this gemstone to the world. Garnet is said to be the stone of romantic love and passion, with the power to enhance sensuality, sexuality and intimacy. It is said to awaken creativity, positive energy and self-confidence, helping to bring success to careers or businesses. Garnet is also considered to be a protective stone, effectively shielding the wearer from evil and nightmares. Owing to the fact that they can be used for spiritual healing, Garnets have long been believed to assist with the treating of infectious diseases, blood poisoning and heart and lung disease.

Availability: Tsavorite Garnet is a somewhat rare gemstone, with stones over five carats in size being especially rare. For this reason, Tsavorite Garnet gemstones of two carats or more are particularly coveted and surprisingly valuable, with per carat prices sometimes reaching as high as US$8,000 per carat. When considering affordable gemstones under two carats in size, even though Tsavorite Garnet is one of the most expensive of the Garnet varieties available, it is still in our opinion a gemstone that represents excellent value for money. Sources: There are known deposits of Tsavorite Garnet in Kenya, Pakistan, South Africa and Tanzania. Tanzania is considered to be the premium and most important origin for Tsavorite Garnet, and stones from this region generally display the most well-balanced balanced green colors, being neither too light, nor too dark. Evaluation: Tsavorite Garnet is rated at 7 – 7.5 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness, making it a durable gemstone. The hardness of this gem makes it ideally suited to all jewelry applications and resilient enough to be worn everyday. Tsavorite Garnet is cherished for it's green coloration, and fantastic brilliance, equaling some of the better known, more expensive gemstones like Diamond, Sapphire and Ruby in this respect. When buying Tsavorite Garnet pay particular attention to color. Whilst Tsavorite Garnet is found in shades of green ranging from pale green, through mid-green, to vivid blue-green, the most desirable and sought-after stones are those that display a well-balanced emerald green color, without being overly dark or yellowish. Clarity is another factor affecting price and due to the nature of Tsavorite Garnet, it should not prove too difficult to secure a stone that is at least eye-clean, as Tsavorite Garnet does not often contain heavy inclusions. Lastly, it is important to only consider well-cut stones as this will ensure that the maximum amount of brilliance is displayed by the gem. Common Cuts: Tsavorite Garnets are cut according to the shape / cut that will influence the least amount of darkness in its color. Oval and Cushion are the most common cuts, closely followed by Round, which is then followed by the other recognized cut shapes / styles.

Tree Agate

Gemstone: Tree Agate Birthstone Month: Agate is associated with the birthstone month of May. Zodiac: Agate is associated with the zodiac sign Gemini. Chemical Symbol: SiO2 Chemical Make-up: Agate is a Silicon Dioxide and is a variety of Chalcedony, which is a member of the Quartz family. It is scientifically classified as either a cryptocystalline or a microcrystalline variety of Quartz. History & Lore: The name Agate is believed to derive from the Greek word given to a stone that was found thousands of years ago in the Achates River in South-western Sicily, now known as Dirillo River. Some of the earliest primitive tools that were created by man's ancestors 2.5 million years ago were made of various types of Quartz, including Agate. Agate has also been used as a gemstone and for other ornamental objects dating back thousands of years. Early Greeks used Agate in the form of amulets as protection from the dangerous elements of the sea. In medieval times Agate was worn to bring God's favor and make one agreeable and persuasive. It was also believed to bring protection from all dangers and to be able to bring about victory and strength. Agate has commonly been used to cure insomnia and to bring about pleasant dreams. It is also said to enhance the wearer's courage, improve perception and concentration, and to provide protection from dangers. Agate is believed to enhance trust and honesty, and to assist with acceptance to circumstances and emotions. In addition to this, Agate is believed to be able to improve memory.

Tree Agate is a centering stone that aids in communication and finding peace in the world. In addition to this, it is believed to be a stone of introspection, helping the wearer view the world more clearly with a broader viewpoint. Availability: Tree Agate tends to be one of the more sought-after varieties of Agate, yet remains relatively inexpensive. Sources: It is documented that Agate was originally mined in the Nahe River Valley in Germany in 1497. These findings gave rise to the cutting center of Idar-Oberstein, Germany. When the deposits of Agate began to dry up in the Nahe River Valley in the nineteenth century, deposits were found in Brazil which sparked the discovery of the country's wide and varied gemstone deposits. There are also known sources of Agate in Australia, China, Congo, Egypt, Iceland, India, Italy, Madagascar, Mexico, Nepal, Russia, the United States, and Uruguay. Evaluation: Agate is rated at 6.5 to 7 on Moh's Scale of Hardness. There is not any specific care required, but general gemstone precautions are always a good idea so that the original condition of the stone can be retained. Tree Agate is an opaque, white stone containing dendrite inclusions that appear like dappled, green leaves. Tree Agate found with distinctive or extraordinary tree-like patterns and in larger sizes will demand a premium. Common Cuts: Tree Agates are most often found cut into free-form and calibrated cabochons. Routine Enhancements: Tree Agate is not known to be enhanced. Care & Cleaning: Agate can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. As with most gemstones, Agate should be kept away from household chemicals and from prolonged exposure to extremes of heat that can cause damage to the stone. Agate should be kept in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items so as to avoid damage / scratching.

Tourmaline

Gemstone: Tourmaline Birthstone Month: Tourmaline is one of the two gemstones associated with the month of October. Zodiac: Being one of the two accepted birthstones for the month of October, Tourmaline is one of the zodiac gemstones for Libra and Scorpio. Chemical Symbol: The general symbol for Tourmaline is (Na, Ca)(Li, Mg, Al)(Al, Fe, Mn)6(BO3)3(Si6O18)(OH)4 Chemical Make-up: Tourmaline is made up of the complex Aluminium Borosilicate element, and depending upon the color of the gemstone, one or more of a number of metal ions, usually Iron, Magnesium and Lithium. History & Lore: The name Tourmaline is widely accepted as being derived from the Singhalese expression tura mali, which when translated means “stone of many or mixed colors”. Tourmaline is often referred to as the rainbow gemstone, due to the huge amout of colors that it is available in. This was certainly believed by the ancient Egyptians who believed that when Tourmaline traveled from its home in the earth's core to the surface, it did so along a rainbow, which subsequently gifted the gemstone with all of the colors of the rainbow. Tourmalines exhibit piezoelectricity and when these stones become warm they become electrically charged – positively at one end and negatively at the other, acting like a magnet and strong enough to attract small particles of dust or ash. It is for this reason that the Dutch of old used Tourmalines to clean their pipes!

As with most gemstones, ancient civilizations credited Tourmaline gems with magical and mystical powers, including having the power to guard against danger and misfortune. Tourmalines are said to have an especially strong influence over friendship and love, lending permanance and stability to both. Tourmaline gems help to amplify psychic ability / energy and are an excellent aid to increasing self-confidence and understanding. Tourmaline is believed to help assist with tranquil sleep, calm nerves, improve concentration and creative processes and to be an aid to curing cancer. Availability: Tourmaline is a very widely available gemstone, with deposits occuring the world over. Whilst the occurance of very high quality, well-colored natural Tourmaline is rare, modern gemstone enhancements and treatments ensure that heat-treated natural Tourmalines are both available and priced at a level making them accessible to all. Sources: There are known Tourmaline deposits throughout the world including, Afghanistan, Africa, Brazil, Italy, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Myanmar (Burma), Nigeria, Pakistan, Siberia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and the United States (California, Connecticut, Maine and Utah). Evaluation: Tourmaline (regardless of variety) is rated at 7 – 7.5 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness and as such is suitable for all jewelry uses and is considered durable enough to be worn everyday. Found in an amazing variety, the sheer number of available Tourmaline colors is second to none and unmatched by any other gemstone. Tourmalines can be found in shades of blue, black, brown, colorless, green, orange, pink, red, yellow and other colors in varying shades and hues, varying from completely transparent to opaque. In addition to this there are also known occurances of bi-color, tri-color, mulit-color and “Cat's Eye” Tourmalines, ensuring that the Tourmaline truly is a gemstone that is available in a color to suit all styles and tastes. A Tourmaline gemstone viewed from different angles will result in differing color intensities being visible. The only one thing that you can be sure of is that the deepest coloration will always be shown along the stone's main axis. When selecting a Tourmaline, go with the color that you like but generally try to steer clear of any stone that is cut too dark. Arguably the most desirable and valuable Tourmalines in today's market are known as “Paraiba” Tourmaline. These are vivid deep blue to bluish-green in color and originate from the Paraiba state in Brazil. Expect to pay a premium for this variety. There is also currently strong demand for the “Verdelith” Green Tourmaline and Pink Tourmaline (Pink Rubellite). Demand is also increasing expotentioally for many of the varieties of Bi, Tri and Multi-colored Tourmalines, most notably “Watermelon” Tourmaline, which are bi-colored stones with a green border enveloping a red center. Common Cuts: Owing to the fact that Tourmaline crystals are long and narrow in shape Tourmaline gems are most commonly, although not exclusively cut into square or rectangular stepped shapes. Routine Enhancements: Tourmalines are often heat-treated in order to lighten colors and to remove “silk” (a form of natural imperfection / inclusion). Some colored Tourmalines actually transform into other Tourmalines (most commonly the Achroite Tourmaline variety), during this heating process. Care & Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to clean Tourmaline. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe. Never use chemicals such as hydrofluoric acid or ammonium fluoride to clean Tourmaline because it can erode the stone. Much like many gemstones, Tourmaline should be kept away from prolonged exposure to extremes of heat and light as this can cause permanent color change.