Paraiba

Some gemstones sparkle, while others capture the gaze like a mesmerizing stream of light. Paraiba tourmaline is one of those rare gems. Its color is elusive – somewhere between azure and turquoise, electric and natural, neon and the depths of the ocean. Like the luminous essence of tropical seas, it has become a symbol of modern luxury in fine jewelry.

Today, Paraiba is one of the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. Its price per carat often exceeds that of diamonds, and jewelry featuring this stone becomes a collector’s item even before it reaches auction houses. So, what is the magic behind Paraiba?

photo: gucci

The mystery of Paraiba: a stone of the future

The history of this hypnotic tourmaline began in 1989 in the Brazilian state of Paraíba, where geologist Heitor Dimas Barbosa made the discovery of a lifetime. At first, the gemstone didn't attract much attention – it appeared as an ordinary tourmaline. But once it was cut and polished, its breathtaking glow was revealed, as if the stone were lit from within.

Later, similar deposits were found in Mozambique and Nigeria, yet Brazilian specimens remain the most prized, thanks to their unparalleled purity of color and distinctive luminosity, caused by traces of copper and manganese in their composition.

What makes Paraiba so rare? For every 10,000 diamonds, there is only one Paraiba tourmaline. This isn’t a marketing exaggeration, it’s a statistical fact.

photo: Oscar Heyman

Why is Paraiba the center of attention now?

The world of Haute Joaillerie has long searched for a gemstone that could define a new era of luxury. Diamonds are timeless, sapphires and emeralds embody classic elegance, but Paraiba is something different – fresh, modern, and captivating.

This gemstone perfectly fits the new philosophy of luxury – it is exclusive yet understated, expensive yet unconventional. It complements both an evening gown and a minimalist daytime look. Paraiba represents freedom of choice, the ability to look luxurious while remaining distinctive and unconventional.

For this reason, Paraiba tourmaline has taken center stage at the world's most prestigious jewelry exhibitions and within the collections of top jewelry houses. It is often featured in drop earrings, bold cocktail rings, and statement necklaces, where it becomes the centerpiece. It pairs beautifully with white gold and platinum, enhancing their cool brilliance, yet it also glows with a unique warmth when set in yellow or rose gold.

photo: Marco Bicego

How to choose a paraiba tourmaline?

If you are considering adding this mesmerizing gemstone to your collection, here are the key factors to keep in mind:

• Color over size: A deep, saturated neon-blue or turquoise hue is more valuable than a large but pale stone.
• Origin: Brazilian Paraiba is the most expensive, but African specimens can also be of exceptional quality.
• Clarity: Minor inclusions are acceptable, but the fewer the imperfections, the higher the price.
• Certification: Due to its rarity, every authentic Paraiba tourmaline should come with official documentation verifying its origin and characteristics.

photo: bvlgari

Is Paraiba a good investment?

Paraiba tourmaline is one of the few gemstones whose value continues to rise. Once known only to a select group of collectors, today, investors and high jewelry connoisseurs alike dream of owning it.

However, perhaps the greatest value of a Paraiba is not in its price, but in the emotions it evokes. This gemstone isn’t just beautiful, it feels alive. It shimmers, shifts in hue depending on the light, and plays with reflections in a way no other stone can.

photo: Harry Winston

Maybe that’s why Paraiba tourmaline has become a jewelry phenomenon so quickly. After all, true luxury is not just about rarity - it’s about the ability to speak the language of emotions.