October’s Birthstone Tourmaline represents balance, wisdom and protection

Story of October’s Birthstone Tourmaline

October’s birthstone tourmaline has close links to magic - it was used by ancient magicians who believed it would help protect them from demons. It’s believed to help guard against environmental pollutants and help balance negative thoughts.

How are Tourmalines Formed?

Tourmaline is produced in deep voids under the ground known as pegmatites. They are filled with a hot liquid with is rich in different minerals. When the liquid begins to the cool the minerals crystallise and form tourmaline crystals. The rock around the pegmatites is usually granite or schist but it can also be metamorphic rock including marble. Tourmaline is its own mineral family.

History and Meaning of Tourmalines

The stone was first discovered by Dutch traders off the West Coast of Italy in the late 1600’s or early 1700’s. At the time, these green tourmalines were assumed to be emeralds. It wasn’t until the 1800s when scientists realized that these stones were their own species of mineral.

Tourmaline is thought to be good for keeping the digestive system healthy as well as strengthening teeth and bones. Tourmaline is a “receptive stone,” which means it is soothing, calming, inward, and magnetic, promoting meditation, spirituality, wisdom and mysticism. It creates peace and promotes communication between the conscious and unconscious minds, allowing psychic awareness to blossom. In Africa, tourmaline was once used as a stone to awaken one from “the dream of illusion.”

Colours of Tourmaline

Tourmaline comes in a complete rainbow of colours. I’ve chosen a beautiful shade of green and a light pink for my new birthstone Satsuma stud earrings.

And a subtle shade of teal blue for my stacking rings.

Opal is October’s other birthstone.