1.42 Ct. Tourmaline from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This exquisite gemstone is a pink tourmaline weighing 1.42 carats, with precise dimensions of 9.27 x 6.28 x 4.25 millimeters. This tourmaline is skillfully crafted in a pear shape featuring a mixed brilliant cut, which enhances its brilliance and light performance. The clarity of this gemstone is graded as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, indicating it has minor inclusions that are difficult to detect with the naked eye. This clarity grade adds to the gemstone's unique character without detracting from its allure. The stone possesses a medium intense color intensity, offering a vibrant and captivating pink hue that is both soft and vivid. The polish of the tourmaline is rated as excellent, reflecting a high standard of craftsmanship that ensures a smooth and flawless surface.
Tourmalines are a fascinating mineral group known for their complex and varied crystal structures. The term "tourmaline" is derived from the Sinhalese word "toramalli," meaning "mixed gems," indicative of the wide range of colors these gemstones can exhibit. This particular pink tourmaline hails from Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka, an island nation renowned for its rich and diverse deposits of high-quality gemstones. Sri Lanka's gem-bearing gravels, known as Ilam, are famous for producing a stunning array of gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and tourmalines.
Geologically, tourmalines are formed in the Earth's crust through complex processes involving high temperatures and pressures. They are commonly found in pegmatites, which are igneous rocks that crystallize from molten magma. The presence of elements such as iron, magnesium, and lithium can influence the color of the tourmaline. In the case of pink tourmalines, trace amounts of manganese give rise to their delicate pink shades, creating a gemstone that is as beautiful as it is scientifically intriguing.
This pink tourmaline's journey from the depths of the Earth to its polished state is a testament to both natural processes and human artistry. The gemstone's origin in Sri Lanka adds a layer of historical and cultural significance, as the country has been a center of gemstone mining and trade for centuries. The careful cutting and polishing of the tourmaline by skilled artisans bring out its inner fire and brilliance, making it a gemstone that is not only a marvel of nature but also a work of art.
This tourmaline's combination of color, clarity, cut, and origin creates a gemstone that is both aesthetically pleasing and scientifically fascinating. Whether used in fine jewelry or as a collector's piece, this pink tourmaline is sure to captivate and inspire.