The short answer: tourmaline comes in more colours than almost any other gem, including pink rubellite, blue indicolite and two colour watermelon, so there is usually a shade you will love. It is durable enough for rings with some care, and different types suit different styles.
Tourmaline is a family of gems rather than a single colour. Its range makes it a favourite for people who want an individual stone.
The main types
| Type | Colour |
|---|---|
| Rubellite | Pink to red |
| Indicolite | Blue |
| Verdelite | Green |
| Paraiba | Neon blue or green, very rare and valuable |
| Watermelon | Pink centre with green edge, or the reverse |
| Bi colour | Two or more colours in one stone |
Why people love it
- A huge colour range in one gem family.
- Good clarity in many colours.
- Colours that can look lively and modern.
Colour from different angles
Many tourmalines show a different depth of colour depending on which way you look through the crystal. Looking down the length of a stone can show a much darker tone than looking across it. A skilled cutter orients the rough so the best colour faces up through the table. When you compare stones on video, ask us to tilt them, so you can see how the colour shifts as the ring moves on your hand.
Durability
Tourmaline is suitable for rings with sensible care, though it is less hard than sapphire and can chip if knocked. A protective setting is wise for everyday wear. See our guide to cleavage and chips.
Cuts
Tourmaline is often cut in long shapes, such as emerald cuts and ovals, to show its colour. Bi colour stones are cut to show their colour zones, which makes them very individual.
Settings
A bezel or a halo protects the stone, and a simple solitaire lets colour show. Yellow and rose gold flatter warm tones, and white metals suit cool blues and greens.
Pairing with diamonds
Tourmaline looks lovely with diamond accents, which add brightness around a coloured centre. A pink rubellite with a white diamond halo feels romantic, a green verdelite with small diamonds on the shoulders feels fresh, and a blue indicolite in platinum looks crisp and modern. Diamonds can be natural or lab grown, and we label each clearly.
Watermelon and bi colour stones
A watermelon tourmaline has a pink centre and a green rim, like the fruit. It is usually cut in thin slices to show both colours, so it suits a pendant or an east west ring. Bi colour stones are cut so that two colours sit side by side, and the orientation changes the look. We can show you how a stone looks in a render before we set it.
Treatment
Some tourmaline is heated to improve colour. A report should state it. For high value stones, such as Paraiba, we recommend an independent report, and we explain what it says.
How to choose
- Choose the colour or colours you love.
- Look at clarity and cut.
- Check the report for treatment.
- Pick a protective setting.
See spinel colours and demantoid and other garnets for more colourful stones, and browse diamonds for accent stones. Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing, and our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Is tourmaline good for an engagement ring? Yes, with a suitable setting.
Which type is most valuable? Paraiba, then fine rubellite and indicolite.
Can I get a bi colour stone? Yes, and it makes a very personal ring.
Does tourmaline fade? Strong heat can affect some stones, so ask us about the one you like.
Can I order a tourmaline ring from overseas? Yes, by video consultation, with insured, tracked FedEx delivery.