
Tourmalines are found in an abundant array of
colors. They offer a wide variety of choice for the discerning gemstone jewelry
enthusiast. A complete collection of all the colors represents a fascinating
quest for the knowledgeable seeker of Nature's bounty. Dark blue, blue-green
and green Tourmalines are occasionally heated to lighten their color. Red
Tourmalines (also known as Rubellites) and pink varieties are often heated
and/or irradiated to improve their colors. Heat and irradiation color
enhancement of Tourmalines are permanent.
Occasionally, Rubellite and
Paraiba Tourmalines may have surface breaking fissures that are filled with
resins and/or hardened resins. Care must be observed with these gemstones.
Avoid exposing them to harsh abrasives and strong chemical
solvents.