Paraiba Tourmaline: Rare Neon Gemstone Jewellery
Paraiba tourmaline, a gemstone that captivates with its electrifying greenish-blue hue, stands as a pinnacle of rarity and beauty in the world of precious gemstones. From the moment you set eyes on its neon-like glow in a jewellery showcase, it attract all attention and admiration. Known for their extraordinary vividness and unique neon hues, this exceptionally rare gemstone is among the most cherished gemstones globally.
The first Paraiba tourmaline gemstone were discovered, in the mines of Brazil state of Paraiba, where its name Paraiba come from, Cuprian-Elbaite of “neon-colours”. Other miners later found similar discoveries in Africa, specifically in Mozambique and subsequently Nigeria, Oyo. This exceptionally rare gemstone is one of a kind and its mesmerising shade is due to the presence of trace amounts of copper, also known to be “copper-bearing” tourmaline.
Neon Blue Green Paraiba Tourmaline
Why Paraiba Tourmalines Outshine Diamonds in Value
Not just the popular bluish-green shade, Paraiba exist in purple, violet and green. Till date, these are the only source for Paraiba, where they are rich in copper content. The supply of Brazil Paraiba tourmaline rough is extremely low, with Mozambique following closely. Which is why prices for fine quality Paraiba has increased significantly over the years. For instance $15,000 to $35,000 USD per carat for Brazil Paraiba. As well as $6,000 to $20,000 USD per carat for Mozambique Paraiba.
As the size increases, the per carat price generally increase significantly. In particularly with existing high worldwide demand for top-quality Paraiba tourmalines. Quality Paraiba tourmaline from Mozambique, weighing more than three carats, often fetch over $15,000 USD per carat. Especially when they exhibit exceptional colour shade and clarity.
Paraiba tourmalines are found in small, pencil-thin veins. Miners use manual tools like wedges and hammers, avoiding machinery to prevent damaging these delicate crystals. This careful process makes Paraiba tourmaline both valuable and rare, ranking it among the world’s rarest gemstones. These stones often have natural inclusions like crystal and needle-like formations. However, their neon glow and exceptional brilliance make these inclusions acceptable in the gemstone trade.
Coloured gemstones can cost more than diamonds. It might be hard to believe, but it’s true. For example, a Brazilian Paraiba tourmaline, known for its neon-bright colour, can be three times as expensive as a diamond! These stones are incredibly rare. In fact, for every 10,000 diamonds mined in Brazil, only one Paraiba tourmaline is found.
Tourmaline Gemstone
Tourmaline the birthstone for the month of October has a variety of colours. Comes naturally in different shade and hue, determined by the chemical composition. In the world of tourmaline gemstone, different colour have inspired their own trade names;
Chromium-rich – a variety of green to intense green commonly known as Chrome Tourmaline.
Iron-rich – light to dark blue, or greenish blue commonly known as Indicolite Tourmaline.
Magnesium-rich – brown, red, pink, purplish, commonly known as Rubelite Tourmaline.
Copper-rich – neon-blue or green, commonly known as Paraiba Tourmaline.
Bi-coloured and multicolour are common, reflect variation of fluid chemistry during crystallisation.
As compared to the rest of tourmaline, Paraiba Tourmaline has more attractive hues, higher colour saturation. Which make it the most valuable and sought-after tourmaline of its class.
Enhancements and Treatments
Paraiba tourmaline, distinguished by their vibrant and electrifying colours, are highly prized in the gemstone market. These astonishing tourmaline gems are often subjected to enhancements that amplify their innate beauty and market appeal. Making them even more desirable to collectors and international fine jewellers.
Heat Treatment
One of the most common forms of enhancement for Paraiba tourmalines is heat treatment. This process is perform to lighten darker shades within the gemstones and alter violet and purple tones to more desirable blues to greenish shade. Unheated Paraiba tourmalines are extremely rare and only occur when their colour naturally exhibits exceptional vibrancy. The effectiveness of this treatment largely depends on the stone’s copper content; stones with low copper or copper-to-manganese ratios may end up colourless or nearly so after treatment. This technique aims to enhance the stone’s natural neon effect, adding to its striking appearance.
Clarity Enhancement Treatments
Although Paraiba tourmaline are primarily valued for their colour and rarity, clarity treatments are seldom applied. Techniques such as laser treatments are used to remove dark inclusions, while fillers might be applied to obscure surface fractures. However, it’s important to recognise that stones undergoing clarity treatments typically hold less value than untreated gems of similar quality, as the natural integrity of the stone is compromised.
Paraiba Tourmaline Jewellery
Unparalleled Neon Blue-Green Paraiba Tourmaline Hues
You cannot miss this gorgeous Paraiba Tourmaline gemstone in fine jewelry collections. It is certainly the limelight jewellery that particular stands out in any jewellery auction house. High jewelry at it’s finest, featuring a highly sought-after Brazil Paraiba gem. Bold design with surrounded fancy pear shaped and round brilliance diamonds.
Investment in Paraiba
Brazil Paraiba Tourmalines classified as the most desirable gemstone as compared to the rest. In terms of price per carat, they are sold for higher premium than the other origins. Standard gemological microscope and semi-quantitative chemical data analysis cannot distinguish between the Paraiba’s originating countries. In fact we do have some instances, where the Paraiba was sent to laboratory and origin was unidentified. Only a spectrometry test, was able to identify the slight chemical differences of the gemstone from Brazil, Nigeria and Mozambique.
Collectors and jewellery enthusiasts generally prefer gemstone in their natural state to maintain their full market value and aesthetic integrity. For buyers, understanding whether a Paraiba tourmaline has undergone any form of enhancement is crucial. This knowledge can significantly influence the stone’s value and its appeal, as clarity enhancement generally fetch lower prices. Prospective buyers should always inquire about any potential enhancements and verify the particular gemstone with a reputable gem laboratory certification.
Nonetheless, the bright neon greenish-blue colour of Paraiba tourmaline is becoming more popular, especially because it is so rare. At GIOIA Fine Jewellery, we are one of the few bespoke jeweller in Singapore that offer such extensive range of paraiba gemstones. Enabling you to explore the unique blend of blue and green hues that significantly enhance its radiance. Discover the perfect colour and shade for you by booking an exclusive appointment with us.
Over the years, Paraiba has shown a strong track record of appreciation in value. As the gemstone becomes scarcer due to mining limitations and increased demand, its price has steadily increased. Investing in high-quality Paraiba tourmalines can potentially yield significant returns over time.
Paraiba Tourmaline Engagement Rings
Paraiba Tourmalines renowned for their vibrant and mesmerising colours. The intense blue-green hues and the neon-like glow set them apart from other gemstones, It is also one of the most popular gem in possess by fine jewelleries. Having a gemstone engagement ring featuring a Paraiba tourmaline will be a standout piece.
Whether it’s a neon green paraiba tourmaline or neon blue tourmaline paraiba, the unique shade of Paraiba is all about personal choice. A Paraiba Blue Tourmaline on your finger, custom made as engagement ring or set in a pair beautiful earrings. This priceless precious gem Paraiba is out to impress everyone for many years to come.