Tourmaline can be found in many places worldwide, but Maine is touted as one of the highest quality producers, with gems that are exceptional in color and grade. Maine tourmaline is known for its pastel colors, whether that’s bluish green, pink, or a combination of both, as in the watermelon tourmaline.
Maine tourmaline featured in our handmade paperclip chain.
Significant Maine tourmaline pendant.
If you live in Maine, or have a connection to Maine, your jewelry collection should include at least one piece featuring this beautiful gem. To address any hesitance on how to incorporate it, we’ve got some pointers on where to start and also some important considerations when selecting pieces.
You may be someone who likes jewelry that doesn't require thought or special accommodations. If you like to go from a boat ride to a shower to bed without changing out or taking off your jewelry pieces, one thing to consider about tourmaline is that it’s relatively soft. Ranking around 7/7.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, tourmaline can certainly be worn for everyday activities, but it’s especially important to be selective about the setting it is in. Make sure to choose pieces that offer protection for the gem when picking out earrings or pendants. A quality jeweler will be able to guide you to the right settings.
Rings featuring tourmaline can be an excellent way to showcase their beauty. Because they are so unique, and also carry the significance of Maine history, they make an ideal heirloom to be passed through generations. Tourmalines are a beautiful pairing with diamonds, and sit beautifully against either silver or gold. For a less traditional engagement ring, a Maine tourmaline from a Maine goldsmith can be an ideal choice. It not only carries all the brilliance and beauty of a diamond, but also has significance for a couple who has ties to Maine.
Like all colored stones, tourmaline does require some care to maintain its appearance, but don’t let that be a deterrent to wearing it regularly. Tourmaline actually generates a slight electric charge, causing dust to become attracted to it. Over time, as the dust accumulates on the back of the stone, it may appear duller and less brilliant. Luckily, it is quite easy to restore its brightness by using a soft toothbrush and water to lightly wash behind the stone.
Simple Maine Tourmaline accent in our Center of Effort pendant: Cribstone Bridge Collection.
As Maine jewelers, we are proud to claim tourmaline as a native stone. With the right knowledge and application, it can become a staple in your own jewelry collection and a beautiful way to symbolize your personal connection to Maine.