Rich ruby-red, cranberry, to vivid shock-pink that retains its saturated red-pink hue under both daylight and incandescent lighting...
Chemical formula
Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄ + Mn³⁺
Tourmaline • Elbaite / Liddicoatite
Watermelon & Bi-Color Tourmaline
Concentric or longitudinal color zoning featuring a pink/red core surrounded by a green rind (true watermelon), or sharp pink-and-green bi-color/tri-color transitions (such as iconic Stak Nala crystals from Pakistan).
Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄ with zoned Mn and FeMohs 7.0 – 7.5 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Tourmaline |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Elbaite / Liddicoatite |
| Gemological Variety | Watermelon & Bi-Color Tourmaline |
| Chemical Composition | Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄ with zoned Mn and Fe |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Mohs Hardness | 7.0 – 7.5 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 3.02 – 3.26 |
| Refractive Index | 1.624 – 1.644 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Concentric or longitudinal color zoning featuring a pink/red core surrounded by a green rind (true watermelon), or sharp pink-and-green bi-color/tri-color transitions (such as iconic Stak Nala crystals from Pakistan).
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Records changing pocket fluid chemistry during crystal growth inside pegmatites in Gilgit-Baltistan (Stak Nala, Shigar), Afghanistan, Brazil, and Madagascar.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Cross-sectional polished slices, terminated zoned crystal specimens, and step-cut bi-color faceted stones.
Fine Jewelry Applications
One-of-a-kind slice pendants, step-cut rings, and bespoke designer earrings.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Almost always natural in color; slices may occasionally be stabilized with clear resin to protect natural stress fractures.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Protect from thermal shock and mechanical knocks along color-zone boundaries; clean with a damp soft cloth.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Symbolizes balance, duality, and harmony in nature. October birthstone.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Tourmaline
Related Entries
Deep indigo blue, teal lagoon blue, to oceanic greenish-blue.
Chemical formula
Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄ + Fe²⁺Vivid neon swimming-pool blue, electric turquoise, and glowing mint green, powered by trace divalent copper (Cu2+) and manganese.
Chemical formula
Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄ + Cu²⁺ / Mn³⁺