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Pink Tourmaline Gemstones
This stone was first discovered off of the west coast of Italy in the early 1700's by some Dutch traders. At one point in time, the red and pink Tourmaline was thought to be Rubies. Pink Tourmaline is much pinker than a true Ruby, but they do have some similarities which include their strength and appearance. It is actually believed now that the Russian crown jewels were Tourmaline and not Rubies. Tourmaline is derived from the Singhalese term "tura mali," meaning "stone of mixed or many colors."
The Chinese have carved figurines with Tourmaline for many years, and there are numerous examples in our museums today that display the beauty and durability of this gemstone. For centuries now, there has been a broad span of beliefs as to what Tourmaline can bring to its wearer. In the 18th century it was thought to help writers, poets, and artists become more creative. The Dutch believed it would help induce sleep amongst children, and in Africa, this particular stone was used to awaken from the "dream of illusion."
Whatever one's beliefs may be, the Tourmaline once heated, becomes magnetic. Positively charged on one end and negatively charged on the other. Carl Von Linne, a Swedish botanist, called it the "electric stone." Tourmaline can be found in coarse Granite or in segments that are adjacent to coarse Granites. In Northern Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Greenland, Bolivia, Mozambique, Brazil, Italy, California and Maine one can find Tourmaline deposits. Due to the variations in shapes, colors and sizes, prices vary tremendously with Tourmaline.