Tourmaline is one of the most vibrant and versatile gemstones available, known for its wide array of colors and properties. If you’re considering adding a piece of tourmaline jewelry to your collection, you might be wondering if it’s suitable for everyday wear. In this guide, we’ll answer that question and provide you with a comprehensive look at the durability, care, and benefits of wearing tourmaline daily.
What is Tourmaline?
Tourmaline is a gemstone that comes in a variety of colors. The word “tourmaline” itself is derived from the Sinhalese word “turmali,” meaning “mixed colored stones.” It’s a mineral that belongs to a complex silicate group and can be found in numerous colors such as pink, green, blue, and even multicolored varieties. Tourmaline is highly valued for its brilliant hues and is often used in jewelry.
Types of Tourmaline
There are several types of tourmaline, and the most well-known varieties include:
Pink Tourmaline: Known for its vibrant pink to red color.
Green Tourmaline: Often green or bluish-green, this variety is commonly used in fine jewelry.
Paraiba Tourmaline: A rare and valuable type of tourmaline known for its neon blue and green colors.
Watermelon Tourmaline: This variety features a mix of red and green colors and resembles the shape of a watermelon.
Tourmaline’s wide range of colors and its unique properties make it a popular gemstone for all kinds of jewelry.
Durability of Tourmaline
When considering wearing a gemstone every day, one of the key factors is its durability. Let’s take a closer look at the hardness of tourmaline.
Hardness and Mohs Scale
On the Mohs scale of hardness, tourmaline ranks between 7 and 7.5, which means it is fairly hard. The Mohs scale rates minerals on a scale from 1 (the softest) to 10 (the hardest). At 7, tourmaline is durable enough to resist scratching from common household items like keys, coins, and glass. However, it is not as hard as diamonds or sapphires, so it may still be susceptible to scratches from harder substances.
Can Tourmaline Handle Everyday Wear?
While tourmaline is relatively durable, it’s important to handle it with care. Wearing it every day is generally safe, but it’s important to avoid exposing it to harsh conditions that could cause damage. For example, activities like cleaning, gardening, or exercising might expose your jewelry to rough impacts that could cause scratches or breakage.
Benefits of Wearing Tourmaline Every Day
Aside from its stunning beauty, tourmaline is believed to have several metaphysical properties that make it an attractive choice for daily wear. Many people wear tourmaline for its healing and protective properties.
Healing Properties
Tourmaline is known for its healing effects. It is believed to promote emotional healing, reduce stress, and help with mental clarity. Some people even claim that wearing tourmaline can help balance energy in the body and promote physical health.
Protective Properties
Tourmaline is considered a protective stone. It is thought to shield the wearer from negative energy and bad vibes. Many people believe that tourmaline has the ability to protect against electromagnetic radiation, making it a popular choice for people who spend a lot of time around electronic devices.
Personal Energy and Balance
Tourmaline is also said to be helpful in maintaining a balanced emotional state. It is believed to encourage self-love, creativity, and the ability to express oneself freely. Wearing tourmaline regularly may help support emotional well-being and personal growth.
How to Care for Your Tourmaline Jewelry
While tourmaline is durable, it still requires proper care to ensure that it maintains its beauty and longevity. Here are some tips for taking care of your tourmaline jewelry:
Cleaning Tourmaline
To clean your tourmaline jewelry, you should use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the stone. Never use ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners on tourmaline, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its shine.
Storing Tourmaline
When you’re not wearing your tourmaline jewelry, store it in a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with individual compartments. This will prevent it from being scratched by other jewelry items. You should also keep tourmaline away from direct sunlight for extended periods, as exposure to sunlight may cause the color to fade over time.
Avoiding Impact
As mentioned earlier, tourmaline is not as hard as some other gemstones, so it’s important to avoid impact with hard surfaces. While it’s suitable for everyday wear, try to remove your jewelry when engaging in activities that might subject it to hard knocks or abrasions.
Can Tourmaline Be Worn in Water?
One question that many people ask is whether it’s safe to wear tourmaline in water. The answer depends on the type of jewelry and how it’s been treated.
Wearing Tourmaline in the Shower
While it’s not ideal to wear tourmaline in the shower, it’s generally safe as long as you avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. Soap, shampoo, and conditioner can dull the surface of the gemstone over time, so it’s best to remove your jewelry before showering.
Swimming with Tourmaline
If you’re planning to swim in chlorinated pools or saltwater, it’s best to remove your tourmaline jewelry. Chlorine and salt can degrade the gemstone and cause it to lose its shine.
How to Style Tourmaline Jewelry for Everyday Wear
Tourmaline jewelry is incredibly versatile and can be worn for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.
Here are some tips on how to incorporate tourmaline into your daily wardrobe:
Casual Style
For everyday wear, consider pairing a simple tourmaline pendant or bracelet with a casual outfit. The vibrant colors of tourmaline can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit, such as a white blouse or a plain t-shirt. You can also mix and match different colors of tourmaline to create a personalized look.
Formal Wear
For special occasions, a piece of tourmaline jewelry like a pair of earrings or a statement necklace can add elegance and sophistication. Tourmaline’s brilliance and unique colors can complement evening gowns and formal attire, making it an excellent choice for weddings, parties, and other formal events.
Layering Tourmaline Pieces
Tourmaline is also great for layering. You can layer multiple pieces of tourmaline jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, and rings, to create a chic, boho-inspired look. Pairing different colors and styles of tourmaline can help you express your personality and creativity.
Conclusion
Tourmaline is a beautiful, versatile gemstone that can be worn every day. With proper care, it can withstand the demands of daily wear and continue to sparkle for years to come. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning colors or its healing properties, tourmaline is a great addition to your jewelry collection. Just be sure to handle it carefully, clean it regularly, and avoid exposure to harsh conditions, and your tourmaline jewelry will remain a treasured part of your collection.
Related topic:
- How Much Is the Tiffany Green Tourmaline Ring Worth?
- What Are the Metaphysical Properties of Green Tourmaline?
- What Is the Impact of the Fracture of Green Tourmaline?
