In 1703, Dutch sailors brought tourmaline stones from the island of Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka) to Europe. They called them “Toramalli”, which in the Sinhala language means “mixed stones.” This was the term used by Ceylonese people for all colorful gems they couldn’t precisely identify.

The sailors also noticed that when heated, tourmalines attracted ash and other light particles. This piezoelectric effect is rare among gemstones and quickly drew attention.

One of the first scholars to systematically study tourmaline was the Swedish mineralogist Carl Linnaeus. In the mid-18th century, he recognized the stone’s unique properties and proposed that it was a distinct type of gemstone rather than a variety of other known minerals. His research confirmed that tourmaline possessed exceptional physical and chemical characteristics.

In the 19th century, a significant number of green gemstones were discovered in Brazil. Initially, they were mistaken for emeralds due to their similar color. However, further studies revealed that these were actually green tourmalines. This discovery established Brazil as one of the world’s largest suppliers of tourmaline.

In the 20th century, the Gubellin Laboratory and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) made major contributions to the study of tourmaline. The GIA conducted in-depth research on the chemical composition and crystalline structure of the mineral, leading to more accurate classification and identification. The Gubellin Laboratory, renowned for its expertise in colored gemstones, provided crucial data on tourmaline’s origins and properties.

The most common type of tourmaline is Schorl, a sodium-iron-rich (bivalent) mineral. More than 95% of all naturally occurring tourmaline belongs to this category.

The early history of the mineral shows that the name “Schorl” was in use before the year 1400, as the village known today as Zschorlau in Saxony, Germany, was then called “Scherl”. This village had a tin mine, where black tourmaline was found alongside cassiterite.

📌 Main Types and Variants of Tourmaline:
Schorl:
From brownish-black to black – Schorl
Dravite (named after the Drava River in Carinthia, Austria):
From dark yellow to brownish-black – Dravite
Elbaite (named after the island of Elba, Italy):
Rubellite – Red or pinkish-red variety
Indicolite – Light blue to bluish-green variety (from Indigo)
Verdelite or Emerald Tourmaline – Green variety
Achroite – Colorless variety (from Greek ἄχρωμος – “colorless”)
📍 Deposits and Mining Regions:
Jewelry-grade and ornamental tourmaline is primarily mined in Brazil and across Africa, including:
Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Malawi, and Namibia.

Significant deposits are also found in Asia, particularly in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Indonesia, as well as in Sri Lanka and India, where alluvial deposits yield high-quality gemstones suitable for jewelry.

A Protective Stone Against Negative Energies
Tourmaline is believed to shield its wearer from evil spirits, immaterial beings, and negative intentions from others. A tourmaline amulet can repel enemies and ill-wishers, protecting the wearer from harmful influences.

“The Men’s Stone” in India
In India, tourmaline is considered a masculine stone. It is believed to enhance confidence, determination, and the ability to achieve goals. Additionally, it is said to have a positive effect on male health and vitality.

Spiritual and Religious Significance
Tourmaline has been widely used in religious ceremonies and was often embedded in sacred objects and clergy garments. It was thought to expose deception, reveal truth, and protect against envy and the evil eye.

A Source of Creativity and Success
Multicolored tourmalines are associated with harmony, joy, and luck. They unlock creative potential, making them an excellent talisman for artists, musicians, and writers. The stone also uplifts mood, helping individuals find their ideal career path and plan for the future.