At The Bench Jewellery, we take pride in crafting custom, timeless pieces that tell stories, and birthstones are no exception. For those born in October, pink tourmaline offers a captivating alternative to the ever-enchanting opal. This gem’s stunning hues of pink—from soft, delicate blush to rich, vibrant fuchsia—have captured the hearts of many for centuries. Pink tourmaline is more than just a pretty stone; it has long been associated with love, emotional healing, and compassion, making it a perfect gemstone for those who appreciate both beauty and symbolism.
The Symbolism of Pink Tourmaline
Pink tourmaline is often referred to as the “stone of the heart” due to its close association with love, compassion, and emotional wellness. Historically, people believed it could help foster empathy and emotional balance in relationships. In times of stress, pink tourmaline was thought to provide emotional healing and restore inner peace. This long-held symbolism has made it a popular choice for those seeking harmony in their personal connections or searching for emotional grounding.
As a birthstone, it resonates with individuals who value gentleness and emotional connection. In metaphysical practices, its vibrant pink tones are linked to the heart chakra, which is believed to promote emotional alignment, openness, and self-love. Many have historically associated it with feelings of joy and inner peace, contributing to its long-standing appeal and reputation.
A Rich History
Though tourmaline comes in many colours, pink tourmaline holds a particularly rich history, often associated with royalty and artistic expression. Tourmaline was first brought to Europe from Sri Lanka by Dutch traders in the late 1600s, who initially mistook it for other gemstones like emeralds or rubies. It wasn’t until later that tourmaline was identified as a distinct mineral.
Pink tourmaline was later discovered in the late 18th century in Minas Gerais, Brazil, and quickly gained popularity. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became popular in the USA and a favourite of Chinese royalty, further boosting its appeal.
Today, pink tourmaline is beloved not only for its radiant beauty but also for its deep symbolism and versatility in custom jewellery design. While it is primarily mined in Brazil, it can also be found in regions like Afghanistan, Madagascar, and California. Its widespread availability ensures that this luxurious gemstone remains an accessible choice for those seeking a distinctive, colourful addition to their jewellery collection.
Interesting Facts About Pink Tourmaline
- Tourmaline’s Name: The name “tourmaline” comes from the Sinhalese word “toramalli,” which means “mixed gems,” reflecting the fact that tourmaline often occurs in various colours in the same deposits. Sinhalese is spoken in Sri Lanka, where tourmaline was first discovered.
- Colour Variations: Although we’re focusing on pink tourmaline here, it’s worth noting that tourmaline can come in an impressive range of colours—from vibrant greens and blues to warm yellows and even black. Tourmaline is one of the most colourful gemstones available.
- Watermelon Tourmaline: One of the most intriguing varieties of tourmaline is “watermelon tourmaline,” which features a combination of pink, green, and sometimes even white in the same stone. It’s named after the fruit for its remarkable resemblance and is highly prized by collectors.
- Durability: With a Mohs hardness rating of 7 to 7.5, pink tourmaline is a durable gem, suitable for everyday wear. However, it’s still wise to handle it with care, especially in intricate designs.
- Piezoelectric Properties: One fascinating physical property of tourmaline, including pink tourmaline, is that it’s piezoelectric. This means that when pressure is applied to the stone, it can generate an electrical charge. This unique characteristic has led to tourmaline being used in certain industrial applications.
- Healing Beliefs: Throughout history, pink tourmaline has been believed to have stress-relieving properties, with people wearing it for emotional balance and calming effects. This belief has persisted among those who practice crystal healing or meditation.
Custom Jewellery with Pink Tourmaline
At The Bench, we specialize in crafting unique, custom jewellery pieces that speak to each individual’s style and story. Pink tourmaline’s versatility allows us to design everything from delicate rings to bold statement necklaces. Its radiant pink hue pairs beautifully with various metals, from classic yellow gold to modern white gold or even rose gold for a monochromatic look.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a meaningful addition to your jewellery collection, pink tourmaline offers an enchanting option. Its timeless beauty and powerful symbolism make it a wonderful gift, especially for those born in October.
Caring for Your Pink Tourmaline
Though pink tourmaline is durable, proper care will help maintain its stunning appearance. Clean your pink tourmaline pieces using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners, and protect the gem from sudden temperature changes, as these can cause fractures.
When not in use, store your pink tourmaline jewellery separately from other pieces to avoid scratches. Regular cleaning and careful storage will ensure that your gemstone remains as radiant as the day it was made.
Celebrate October with The Bench
If you’re looking to celebrate your October birthday or simply wish to adorn yourself with a gemstone that embodies love and emotional wellness, pink tourmaline is an excellent choice. At The Bench Jewellery, we can craft custom pieces that showcase the beauty of this stunning stone. Our expert jewellers and gemologists in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Chilliwack are ready to bring your vision to life, creating bespoke jewellery that is as unique as you are.
Whether it’s a sparkling pink tourmaline ring or a delicate necklace, we take pride in every piece we create, ensuring it’s made to last and be cherished for years to come. Celebrate your October birthday with pink tourmaline, or explore our other offerings, including opal, October’s other mesmerizing birthstone. No matter your choice, we are here to make your jewellery dreams a reality.