Paraiba Tourmaline

Neon Wonder of the Gem World

Paraiba tourmalines are instantly recognizable for their electrifying blue, green, and turquoise hues. Discovered in the 1980s in Brazil, their neon color—caused by copper—is found nowhere else in the gem world. New deposits have appeared in Africa, but true Brazilian Paraibas are legendary.

“A gemstone that glows with its own inner light.”

All the information you need about Paraiba Tourmaline is below.
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Paraiba Tourmaline: History & Origin

“There is no other color like Paraiba—alive, electric, and unforgettable.”

Paraiba tourmaline burst onto the market in the late 1980s when miners in Paraíba State, Brazil, unearthed stones of never-before-seen brilliance. Copper gives them their trademark neon blue. Fine examples are rare, often less than a carat, and fiercely sought after by collectors. Nigeria and Mozambique now yield similar colors but Brazilian gems remain the most valuable.

Discovery: Paraíba, Brazil, 1987.

Other Sources: Nigeria, Mozambique.

Color: Neon blue, green, turquoise (copper-bearing).

Rarity: Brazilian stones are extremely rare.

Hardness: Mohs 7–7.5.

Paraiba Tourmaline: Heritage, Qualities & Market Value

Paraiba tourmaline’s value depends on vivid neon color, clarity, and origin. Brazilian stones with strong glow can reach record prices per carat—higher than most sapphires and even some diamonds. African Paraibas can be beautiful but usually cost less. Many stones are heated to intensify their color.

Main Sources: Brazil (Paraíba), Nigeria, Mozambique.
Key Color: Vivid neon blue or green.
Treatment: Many are heat-treated for maximum glow.
Market: Most expensive tourmaline variety.

Paraiba Tourmaline: Culture & Myth

Modern Treasure

A contemporary gem phenomenon, Paraiba tourmaline is a favorite of collectors and high-jewelry designers.

Symbolism

Said to represent energy, vitality, and inspiration—thanks to its vibrant glow.

Investment Stone

Fine Paraiba tourmaline appreciates rapidly in value due to extreme rarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Copper content is responsible for Paraiba’s vivid glow.

Both are copper-bearing, but true Brazilian gems are rarer and usually more valuable.

Paraiba Tourmaline