Blue Tourmaline / Indicolite Tourmaline

Meaning of Lagoon Tourmaline

Deriving its name after a unique mineral specie “toramalli” (a Sinhalese term applied to waterworn gem pebbles obtained from Ceylon) Blue tourmaline, is a stunning blue-hued gemstone that belongs to the borosilicate mineral. The soft, bright, and gorgeous deep indigo undertones resembling the shallow bodies of a lagoon lend the gemstone another name- lagoon tourmaline. The finest shades of blue tourmaline have gained immense popularity as a healing gemstone loaded with the calm energies of one of the five elements of the earth i.e., Water. It resonates a strong feeling of calm aura that signifies peace of mind. In many cultures, blue tourmaline or lagoon tourmaline is known as the stone of service and works best for those who are employed in healthcare, charity, similar sectors.

Who Should Wear Blue Indicolite Tourmaline?

Indicolite/Blue Tourmaline meaning is closely associated with its deep indigo color. It is also addressed by other names like Blue Tourmaline, Lagoon Tourmaline, Indigolite, Aqualite mineral etc. It is one of the most valuable and collectable varieties of the Elbaite tourmaline family.

• Blue Tourmaline or Indicolite stone is the modern October Birthstone and is also regarded as the 8th Anniversary gemstone in the western culture.
• Due to its warm healing energies, Blue Tourmaline stone is strongly recommended for people dealing with depression, stress, anxiety or any other psychological disorder.
• Blue Tourmaline hardness ranges between 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale that indicates its high durability. This remarkably beautiful blue colored stone is a perfect gemstone for the lovers of blue gemstone jewelry. It is also a fascinating centre stone for the engagement rings and wedding bands of modern brides and grooms.

Indicolite and Diamond Studded Ring Picture Credit - Google

Factor Affects Quality of Blue Tourmaline

When purchasing a Blue Tourmaline or Indicolite for jewelry or for healing purposes, it is always important to choose a fine quality gemstone to get value for money. It is better to know the origin of the stone and examine its color, clarity and cut carefully to purchase the best quality Blue Tourmaline gemstone and ensure a delightful shopping experience.

• Origin

  – Indicolite mines are located in the USA, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Nigeria, Mozambique and Afghanistan . Due to their highly saturated blue hue, brilliant luster and rarity, the blue tourmalines from the Paraiba region of Brazil (Brazilian Blue Paraiba Tourmaline ) are considered the best. Other significant origins resourcing fine quality Indicolite gemstones are Afghanistan, Mozambique and Nigeria etc.

• Color

  – The natural color of Blue Tourmaline or Indicolite Tourmaline varies from lighter to deep intense blue. Most of the Indicolites have some degree of green secondary tones but until unless the blue hue dominates, they will be regarded as Blue Tourmaline in the trade. A natural blue tourmaline bearing uniformly saturated vivid blue hue in medium tone belongs to the premium variety. Neon blue tourmaline, light blue tourmaline, dark blue tourmaline and blue green tourmaline stone are the other popular choices in color.

Different shades of Blue Tourmaline

• Clarity

  – Considering the Blue Tourmaline properties , this gemstone is classified as a Type II clarity stone which means it is usually included. This gemstone possesses visible flaws in the form of gas inclusions, liquid filled crystals and color zoning. Fine quality, eye clean Blue Tourmaline gemstones are rarely found in nature, therefore, considered quite valuable.

• Cut

  – Cutting Blue Tourmaline rough stone requires superior gem cutting skills as this gemstone is strongly pleochroic (shows different color from different angles). The finished gemstone may lose its transparency and brilliance if not faceted properly. Fine quality raw Blue Tourmaline is often designed in beautiful shapes and cuts such as oval, round, cushion, square etc. Lower grade raw Indicolite is mostly cut in cabochons (non-faceted, polished gem).

Blue Tourmaline Price

Indicolite, Aqualite or Blue Tourmaline is a rare and precious variety of Tourmaline gemstone . Generally, the factors such as the origin, color, clarity, cut and carat weight are assessed while determining the Aqualite/ Blue Tourmaline/Indicolite Tourmaline price per carat. In addition, the place of purchase also creates a difference in the prices. For e.g. – One can notice a significant difference in Aqualite price in US, India and UAE etc.

Generally, Indicolite price per carat in India ranges between ₹ 1,500 per carat ($25 approx.) to ₹ 10,000 per carat ($150 approx.) depending on the quality and size.

• Origin

  – Due to its intense blue or blue green hue, good clarity and rarity (Paraiba mines are closed now), Paraiba Blue Tourmaline value is higher than stones from other origins. Afghan Blue Tourmaline, Mozambique blue tourmaline and Nigerian Blue Tourmaline also hold a good value in the international gemstone market.

• Color

  – Indicolite color ranges from blue to greyish blue and blue-green due to the presence of copper and iron traces. Clear blue Tourmaline is rare and more expensive than stones in green or grey tone. The copper bearing neon blue Paraiba Tourmaline has gained huge popularity for its exceptional hue, vibrant shine and limited availability. The price of Blue Tourmaline of such quality remains substantially high. If you are interested in Paraiba Tourmaline, read our Paraiba Tourmaline buying guide.

Copper Bearing Indicolite Tourmaline Image Credit – Google