Tourmaline
About
Mohs Scale 7 to 7.5
Famously known as the “electric stone” due its ability to generate a charge when heated (pyroelectricity) or pressured ((piezoelectricity). Tourmaline is known as the “rainbow gem” as it exists in almost every color. It’s a dichroic stone exhibiting different colors when viewed from different angles. Tourmaline is a complex boron silicate mineral with a trigonal crystal system. Watermelon tourmaline is a rare and highly coveted variety of elbiate tourmaline, distinguished by it concentric color that forms as rings of pegmatite green, white and pink, resembling a watermelon.
Known as 'receptive stone' for fostering empathy, understanding and emotional balance. Black tourmaline is especially helpful for grounding and neutralizing negative energy. Pink tourmaline is an enhancer of love, joy and harmony. Watermelon tourmaline is a 'super-activator' of the heart-chakra, known as the 'stone of reconciliation', it fosters compassion, reduces anxiety and helps heal emotional wounds.
Due to its electrical properties, tourmaline is used in specialized industries: pressure sensors; medical & scientific devises; environmental and water treatment; functional textiles and cosmetics; industrial additives for products like cleaning supplies, hair straighteners, and air purification systems.
Use & Care
Use: Last On, First Off: Apply all lotions, perfumes, and hair/body sprays before putting on jewelry to prevent chemical buildup that can dull and damage the surface. Activity Check: Remove jewelry before swimming (chlorine), showering (soap residue and chemical exposures), or high impact activities like exercise or gardening to avoid damage. Chemical Exposure: Avoid household cleaners, alcohol-based sanitizers, and vinegar, which can alter appearances permanently.
Cleaning: Method: Use lukewarm water and mild (detergent free) soap. Action: Gently rub with a soft cloth. Drying: Crucial. Immediately pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Do not air-dry, as residual moisture can damage porous stones over time. Avoid: Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, which can cause fractures and strip some colors.
Storage: Individual Separation: Store each piece in its own soft pouch or a lined compartment to prevent stones and metals of varying hardness scratching each other. Environment: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Moisture Control: Consider adding silica packets to storage containers to absorb excess humidity that can tarnish metals and affect stones over time.
Longevity: