Tourmaline is a gemstone known for its vibrant and diverse color palette, which includes blues and pinks that are highly valued and sought after. Identifying genuine blue and pink tourmaline can be a complex process, but with a solid understanding of its unique properties and characteristics, one can effectively distinguish the real gems from fakes or other similar-looking stones. Below is a detailed guide to identifying blue and pink tourmaline from a professional jewelry appraiser’s perspective.
Understanding the Basics of Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a semi-precious gemstone that belongs to the boron silicate mineral group. It is one of the most colorful gemstones, displaying hues ranging from deep blues and greens to warm pinks and reds. This wide color range is due to the varying trace elements present in the mineral’s crystal structure. Tourmaline is relatively plentiful, but certain colors, such as Paraiba tourmaline, are rare and highly valued.
Identifying Blue Tourmaline
Color Saturation and Tone
Color is one of the most important factors in evaluating tourmaline. Bright, pure tones of blue are generally highly valued. The electric vivid blue shades of copper-bearing tourmaline are particularly exceptional and command a high price. Look for a stone that displays a strong, even color with minimal dark areas.
Clarity and Inclusions
Clarity refers to the internal characteristics of the gemstone, such as inclusions. Tourmalines often grow in an environment rich in liquids, and some of these liquids are captured as inclusions during crystal growth. These inclusions can resemble thread-like cavities parallel to the length of the crystal. While some inclusions are natural and acceptable, excessive or obtrusive ones can detract from the gem’s value.
Hardness and Durability
Tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. To test its hardness, you can gently rub a steel knife blade (which has a hardness of around 5.5) against a discreet spot on the gem. If the blade scratches the stone, it suggests that it might be a softer, fake material.
Cut and Shape
The cut of the tourmaline is crucial in maximizing its beauty and brilliance. A well-cut gem will sparkle and reflect light evenly across its surface. Look for a stone that is properly proportioned and symmetrical, with facets that are precisely arranged to enhance its color and clarity.
Reaction to Light
Genuine tourmalines may change color slightly under artificial light. While this is not a universal rule, it can be a helpful indicator. Some varieties, like rubellites (red tourmalines), do not change color under artificial light. However, if a blue tourmaline does not display any color change, it might be worth further investigation.
Identifying Pink Tourmaline
Color Range and Saturation
Pink tourmaline displays a range of hues from soft, pastel pinks to deeper, more intense pinks. Highly saturated colors without dark areas are the most valuable. Less saturated “earth” tones have also become popular in recent years, appealing to those who prefer a more muted palette.
Clarity and Inclusions
As with blue tourmaline, clarity and inclusions are key indicators of quality. Examine the stone closely for any internal flaws or imperfections. Natural inclusions, such as thread-like cavities, are common in tourmaline and do not necessarily detract from its value. However, if the inclusions are too numerous or too prominent, they can reduce the gem’s appeal.
Hardness Test
The hardness test is equally important for pink tourmaline. Using a steel knife blade, gently rub it against a discreet area of the gem. If the blade scratches the stone, it suggests that it is softer than genuine tourmaline and could be a fake.
Change in Color Under Light
Genuine pink tourmaline may also exhibit a slight color change under artificial light, displaying a brownish undertone. This is not a universal characteristic, but it can be helpful in identifying genuine stones. Rubellites, a variety of red tourmaline, do not change color under artificial light, but this rule does not apply to pink tourmalines.
Cut and Shape
The quality of the cut is crucial in determining the beauty and brilliance of pink tourmaline. A well-cut gem will reflect light evenly across its surface, creating a lively sparkle. Look for a stone that is proportioned correctly and has facets that are precisely arranged to enhance its color and clarity.
Examining for Synthetic or Fake Stones
Since pink tourmaline is not rare, it is less likely to be counterfeited than more valuable gemstones. However, rubellites, which are a type of pink tourmaline with a vibrant, reddish hue, are expensive and rare, especially in larger sizes. To ensure that you are purchasing a genuine stone, consult a professional jeweler who has access to powerful microscopes and expertise in gemstone identification.
Additional Tips for Identifying Tourmaline
Seek Professional Advice
If you are unsure about a tourmaline’s authenticity or quality, consult a professional jeweler. They have the tools and expertise to accurately identify and evaluate gemstones. Look for a jeweler who is certified by a reputable gemological organization, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Verify Certification
If a tourmaline is accompanied by a certification report, verify the information on the report with the issuing organization’s database. This ensures that the gemstone’s characteristics, such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, match the report’s description.
Educate Yourself
While professional advice is invaluable, educating yourself about tourmaline’s properties and characteristics can also help you make informed decisions. Read books, articles, and online resources about gemstones and attend gemology classes if possible. This knowledge will empower you to identify genuine tourmaline and avoid potential fakes or misrepresentations.
Look for Unique Characteristics
Tourmaline has several unique characteristics that can help in identification. For example, it is the only gemstone that exhibits the pyroelectric effect, meaning it becomes charged with electricity when heated. While this is not a practical test for identifying individual stones, it is an interesting fact that sets tourmaline apart from other gemstones.
Conclusion
Identifying blue and pink tourmaline requires a combination of knowledge, observation, and professional advice. By understanding the gemstone’s unique properties and characteristics, such as its color range, clarity, hardness, and cut, you can effectively distinguish genuine tourmaline from fakes or similar-looking stones. Seeking professional advice from a certified jeweler and verifying certification reports can also provide additional assurance of the gemstone’s authenticity and quality. With this guide, you can confidently navigate the world of tourmaline and make informed decisions when purchasing or evaluating these beautiful and colorful gemstones.
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