The name "tourmaline" appeared in Holland. Hitherto unknown stones called “turamali” or “toramali” arrived there from Sri Lanka. The Dutch did not know that on the island they called any gems that way...
In India, they not only valued precious stones, but also knew their magical and healing properties. Watermelon tourmaline stone was in great demand among men. After all, according to the Indian sages, it increased love fervor and sexual capabilities.
Informative: women were prohibited from wearing jewelry made from this type of crystal. A woman should not be too passionate and loving. This creates problems for their men.
In Antiquity, tourmalines were valued for their ability to give light and pleasant dreams and relax the body and soul.
Tourmalines of different colors
The extensive family of gems shines with a variety of colors. This is facilitated by the complex crystalline structure of the mineral and the large number of chemical elements included in its composition.
Tourmalines are complex borosilicates. Their composition of incoming elements can vary within wide limits. The chemical composition of the crystal determines their color.
Watermelon tourmaline is a polychrome variety of the mineral. These crystals have several zones, each colored differently.
Properties of the gem
Like all tourmalines, watermelon stone has the following physical properties:
- glass shine;
- hardness 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale;
- dash color is white;
- refractive index 1.616-1.662;
- density 3.02-3.26 g/cm3;
- polychrome color, zonal color distribution;
- the fracture is uneven;
- fragile.
Crystals exhibit pyro- and piezoelectric properties. An electric charge appears on a crystal when it is rubbed or heated. In this case, one end of the crystal has a positive charge, the other - a negative one.
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Tourmalines are important in industry and science. These are radio and microelectronics, medical devices.
The color of polychrome crystals can have up to five differently colored zones. Color colors are distributed perpendicularly or parallel to the main axis of the crystal. The second type is watermelon tourmaline. With a perpendicular color distribution, the crystals have a black or red top. Such gems have the trade names “Moor’s head” and “Turk’s head”.
Areas of application
The unique property of a crystal to carry an electric charge is used in radio engineering.
Tourmalines are very popular among collectors.
The ability of crystals to carry an electrical charge is widely used by Western and Eastern manufacturers. And my God, where they don’t “insert” tourmaline. This:
- belts and bandages (on the knees, on the neck, on the lower back);
- bed sheets;
- socks and underwear;
- massage mats;
- dishes;
- bath balls;
- hair combs.
Jewelry beauty
And here is a little about jewelry art.
At the beginning of the 14th century. Jewelry art is developing in Europe, the masterpiece of which was the “Crown of Charles IV”, converted in 1346 from the crown of St. Wenceslas, the enlightener of the Czech Republic. It is decorated with unique polished stones: pink tourmaline weighing 250 carats; 2 Ceylon sapphires weighing 330 and 280 carats. and 17 sapphire cabochons weighing from 200 carats; 45 red Badakhshan spinels, the largest of which weighs 100 carats; 26 emeralds from Egypt, 20 pearls and an aquamarine.
A huge (over 100 grams in weight) pink tourmaline was purchased in Beijing. Of course, it went to the first lady of Russia, Catherine I. The gem adorned the empress’s crown. When she was replaced on the throne by Anna Ioannovna, the stone from Catherine’s crown was taken out and inserted into the crowns of the new empress. New broom, whatever you want...
The leaders of the Russian Orthodox Church respected the gem. The tabernacle with a large pink crystal (it belonged to the Annunciation Cathedral of the Kremlin) is now kept in the Armory Chamber.
A red stone the size of a pigeon's egg, which King Gustav of Sweden gave to Empress Catherine II in 1777. It was believed to be a ruby. However, research has shown that it is a pink tourmaline weighing 250 carats. Currently located in the Diamond Fund in Moscow.
Where is watermelon tourmaline found?
Deposits of polychrome tourmaline:
- Africa (Mozambique, Angola, Zambia, Tanzania);
- China;
- Madagascar;
- Sri Lanka;
- Namibia;
- Afghanistan;
- Nepal;
- Italy (Elba Island);
- Canada.
In Brazil, “classic” watermelon tourmalines are mined - a pink or red core, bordered by a stripe of green zone of different shades. In South Africa, Brazil and Myanmar, a variety called “eye” is found - with a green core and a red border.
We recommend reading about pink tourmaline - rubellite and black tourmaline - schorl.
An interesting and rare variety of multi-colored gems is liddicoatite. When cut, these stones have a kaleidoscopic multi-colored pattern.
For lovers of mineralogy: Liddicoatite got its name in honor of the American mineralogist Liddicoat. He is known for creating the grading system for diamonds (4C GIA).
In Russia, multi-colored crystals are found in the Middle Urals and Transbaikalia.
origin of name
The stone was known in Ancient Egypt and Persia. In Ancient India, only men were allowed to wear crystal; it was prohibited for women. Tourmalines were brought to the Russian state from the East in the 16th century, then all red gems were called “lalami”. Two-color crystals were brought to Europe in 1703 by Dutch sailors from Sri Lanka, where the natives called the stones “turamali,” which means “multi-colored stone” in Sinhala.
There is a version that the word that the locals used to call the gem translates as “attracting ashes.” The natives used the stone's electrifying properties to clean smoking pipes.
The mineral received the epithet “watermelon” for its resemblance to the famous juicy berry. The cross-section of the crystal surprisingly resembles a slice of watermelon with reddish juicy pulp. Looking at the watermelon tourmaline photo, you can be sure that the stone did not get its name by chance.
Magical properties of the gem
The properties of watermelon tourmaline as a protective stone are quite high. A gem amulet placed in the house will protect the family space
The magical properties of the gem are largely aimed at the sphere of emotions and love. If there is a break in a relationship, a watermelon tourmaline talisman will gently heal a mental wound. Unrequited love will not cause difficult experiences, and will pass like a quick summer rain - if you have a polychrome tourmaline amulet.
Watermelon Tourmaline Jewelry
Such amulets give a sense of internal security and encourage the owner to live in harmony with the outside world.
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The gem, according to lithotherapists, will help the owner prolong the youth of the soul and body. The stone is suitable for creative people - poets, artists, writers; it will be a source of inspiration and will help the imagination take off.
An amulet made of watermelon tourmaline will help a student concentrate on his studies and exams.
Wearing “electric jewelry” made of multi-colored stones means not only healing yourself and protecting yourself from magical attacks and the evil eye. The cheerful pieces of “stone berry” are also a delight for the eyes.
Decorations and prices
- Jewelry (for both women and men) is made only from transparent stones with pronounced pleochroism, without visually noticeable defects, chips or cracks. Jewelry for men is represented by massive rings, cufflinks, watches and rosary beads inlaid with stones.
- Tourmalines are equally organic in a frame made of cupronickel, gold, silver or jewelry alloy. Occasionally they are set in platinum.
- The most popular types of cuts: classic diamond or cabochon.
- Products in monochrome colors go well with a business suit; Decorations with multi-colored compositions are more appropriate for informal events.
- A business look can be complemented with a pendant or modest beads. For a formal evening event, you can wear a set consisting of long beads, a ring and earrings. It goes perfectly with a floor-length cocktail or evening dress.
Gold ring with tourmalines and cubic zirconias
It is very difficult to say the average cost of 1 carat of a mineral, since it mainly depends on the variety. For example, pink tourmaline or rubellite is much cheaper than the very famous Paraiba stone. And green stones will cost more than black ones.
Moreover, it is unlikely that an ordinary buyer is interested in the price of such a small stone; it is much more important to know the cost of the entire jewelry. And here a completely different story begins, which depends on the price of the stone inserts, the frame and even the store.
For example, silver earrings with 5 tourmalines of different colors cost $60-70, and a gold brooch in the shape of a hummingbird, decorated with a scattering of rhodolites and tourmalines, will cost $500. The cost of a gold ring with diamonds and Paraiba tourmaline reaches $20,000.
Treat yourself with a “delicious” gem
The healing properties of watermelon tourmaline are based on its physical properties. The gem can be used in air ionizers. Lithotherapists would readily use the stone. But there are many types of cheaper minerals, and they are used for medicinal purposes.
Jewelry with watermelon tourmaline
Tourmaline products can remove:
- depression;
- panic attacks;
- insomnia;
- stress;
- improve blood circulation;
- strengthen immunity;
- reduce joint pain.
Earrings and beads with watermelon tourmaline will help stabilize blood pressure and normalize metabolism. This type of gem (according to lithotherapists) will help restore peace of mind and quickly come to compromises in life.
Attention: it is not recommended to wear jewelry with tourmalines for people with a pacemaker, thyroid problems, or fever.
Talismans, amulets, amulets
Ring with tourmalines
Tourmaline is a wonderful talisman in absolutely any form - in a pendant on a chain, in earrings, in a necklace, etc. Tourmaline is set in both gold and silver. Green tourmalines are able to awaken creative powers in their owner and give rise to a cheerful mood. Red tourmalines have been talismans for artists since ancient times, and black ones have been used in witchcraft and black magic.
Tourmaline has always been considered the best talismans for representatives of the creative profession - ideal for writers, artists, musicians, poets, etc. Such talismans can often be seen on magicians and psychics.
Red tourmalines were used as talismans by famous painters of different times. The “electric” stone awakens the creative powers of its owner, increases intellectual abilities, and feeds energy.
Astrology of Watermelon Tourmaline
According to the horoscope, “stone pieces of watermelon” are suitable for Leo, Capricorn, and Sagittarius. The stone will help everyone stay young and attractive longer. Aries will tame their overly passionate temperament if they wear jewelry with a “tasty” stone. For Scorpios, with their often gloomy, gloomy energy, a bit of fun that a piece of jewelry made from a multi-colored stone will bring into their lives will not hurt.
The only zodiac sign that is not recommended to wear jewelry with a gem often and for a long time is Virgo.
Which zodiac sign is the stone suitable for?
Astrologers advise carefully choosing a talisman stone for yourself. Tourmalines of completely different shades suit different zodiac signs. As for the stone, the shades of which resemble a watermelon, almost all zodiac families can afford it, but it is better to take into account the advice of experts:
- The amulet will save Aries from excessive temper and stubbornness, which interferes with life. In return, the person will receive inner harmony and positivity.
- With the help of the stone, Leo will be able to pacify his pride and learn to listen more to strangers. This will allow him to become calmer and more balanced.
- Libras will not doubt every word for a long time; they will become confident in themselves, but not stubborn, which is very important.
- Capricorns are often stubborn. This interferes with life, so the gemstone will soften a tough temperament and help you find inner balance.
- Virgos, taking the energy of the mineral, will be able to open their hearts to others. This will help normalize relationships with loved ones and friends.
- Changeable Geminis, under the influence of a precious talisman, will learn to concentrate on one activity, rather than being scattered among many tasks. They will be able to cope with raging emotions and will become calmer.
- For Sagittarius, watermelon tourmaline will bring positivity. It will help representatives of this sign get rid of accumulated negativity. They will begin to accept the truth more calmly and become much more conscientious.
- With the talisman, Aquarians will learn to be attentive to words and work. Negativity will gradually disappear from life.
- For Scorpios, the amulet will help get rid of constant stress and suppress irritability.
It is important to know that a gold setting enhances the energy of the crystal. Beautiful jewelry is not suitable for daily wear; you need to take it out from time to time, and not constantly hide it in the box.
Friends, a unique tourmaline, similar to a slice of watermelon, has revealed its secrets. Share this post on social networks with your friends, comment on the post and tell us what else you would like to know about. See you soon, we still have many precious secrets ahead that are time to be revealed!
Team LyubiKamni
How to recognize imitations
There are no high-quality fakes on the market. There is a method in which silicon workpieces are bombarded with aluminum, boron, and potassium ions. But this is not profitable.
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Cheaper stones or colored glass are often passed off as tourmalines.
How to spot a fake:
- Natural tourmaline is difficult to scratch, unlike glass.
- Rub the stone until warm. After this, the real mineral will attract dust, hairs, and pieces of paper.
- Take a closer look at the color of the gem. The fake has an even color, without tints or halftones.
The answer of official medicine
What are the benefits of tourmaline products and what are the health effects of this mineral? Lithotherapy practitioners claim that this unique mineral helps eliminate the following problems:
- disorders of microcirculation of blood and lymph;
- pain in joints and muscles;
- endocrine imbalance;
- increased fatigue.
Which tourmaline products have helped improve the health of millions of people? Here are just a few of them:
- tourmaline bracelets;
- combs;
- air ionizers with filters made from particles of this mineral;
- mats;
- tourmaline healing belts;
- vessels with tourmaline particles.
Lithotherapy enthusiasts are convinced that healing stones and products made from them are harmless and have no side effects. Should we take their word for it?