Tourmaline

The name tourmaline comes from the Sinhalese word "turmali" for "mixed colors." This is another stone that comes in virtually all colors, and some even combine colors in the same stone.  Red tourmaline is sometimes known as rubellite, blue as indicolite, and green as verdalite.  A beautiful and rare type of tourmaline (known as Paraiba tourmaline) is highly sought-after and is one of the most expensive varieties of gemstones.  Tourmaline is the traditional birthstone for October. They are a bit more delicate than other gemstones, so care must be taken when setting and cleaning.

2.96 ct Rubellite Tourmaline

The red variety of tourmaline (rubellite) is very often a highly included gemstone, so it's rare to find one like this that is virtually flawless. Much of the rubellite is being sold to buyers in China; in fact this stone was selected from a rough parcel just before the others were shipped off to the Hong Kong gem show. A deep slightly-purplish red, cut using the classic scissors cut, and a substantial ring size.

2.96 ct, 11.2 x 6.9 x 5.1mm, VVS clarity
$295

1.48 ct Chrome Tourmaline

Another rare gemstone, this one is a chrome tourmaline from Kenya.  It's my favorite triangle cushion design, with cut corners to make it easy for a jeweler to set.  A deep rich green and very clean.  

1.48 ct, 7.8 x 7.8 x 4.8mm, VS clarity
$295

1.50 ct Afghan Tourmaline

A rare color for tourmaline, this flawless ice blue tourmaline is from Afghanistan. Very very bright and a nice ring size.

1.50 ct, 7.3 x 7.3 x 5.2mm, IF clarity
$195