Paraiba tourmaline is highly valuable due to its exceptional and rare combination of vivid colors, unique fluorescence, and limited supply. Here are some factors that contribute to the value of Paraiba tourmaline:
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Intense Color: Paraiba tourmaline is renowned for its electrifying and vibrant hues, which range from intense blues to mesmerizing greenish-blues. The neon-like colors of Paraiba tourmaline are unlike those found in any other gemstone, making it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
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Copper Content: The mesmerizing colors of Paraiba tourmaline are attributed to the presence of trace amounts of copper in its crystal structure. This copper content is responsible for the unique turquoise-like blue and greenish-blue colors that are characteristic of Paraiba tourmaline. The rarity of such copper-bearing tourmalines adds to their value.
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Fluorescence: Paraiba tourmaline exhibits a fascinating attribute known as "neon fluorescence." Under certain lighting conditions, the gemstone can emit a captivating glow that enhances its color and adds to its allure. The combination of intense color and fluorescence makes Paraiba tourmaline highly prized by gemstone connoisseurs.
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Limited Supply: Paraiba tourmaline is considered one of the rarest and most coveted gemstones in the world. Its occurrence is restricted to a few locations, primarily Brazil and Mozambique. Within these locations, the availability of Paraiba tourmaline is limited, and high-quality specimens are scarce. This rarity contributes significantly to its value in the market.
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Size and Clarity: Paraiba tourmaline gemstones are often found in smaller sizes, which further adds to their scarcity. Larger, high-quality Paraiba tourmalines are even rarer and command higher prices. Additionally, Paraiba tourmalines with excellent clarity, free from significant inclusions, are highly valued and more desirable.
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Market Demand: The extraordinary beauty and rarity of Paraiba tourmaline have captured the attention of collectors, jewelry enthusiasts, and gemstone connoisseurs worldwide. The strong market demand for Paraiba tourmaline, combined with its limited supply, drives its value.
It's important to note that the value of Paraiba tourmaline can vary based on factors such as color saturation, size, clarity, and overall quality. The most prized Paraiba tourmalines exhibit vibrant, saturated colors with a good balance between blue and green tones. When purchasing Paraiba tourmaline, it's advisable to seek gemstone certification from reputable gemological laboratories to ensure the authenticity and quality of the stone.
Due to its rarity, exceptional color, and unique fluorescence, Paraiba tourmaline commands high prices in the market and remains highly coveted by gemstone enthusiasts and collectors.