Beyond the familiar colours, tourmaline includes some of the most prized and valuable gemstones in the trade — each with its own name and character. From the electric glow of Paraiba to the rich red of rubellite, these tourmaline types are treasured by collectors and jewellers alike. This guide explores the rare and valuable named varieties of tourmaline and what makes each one special. (For colour-and-chakra basics, see our types of tourmaline guide.)
What Are Tourmaline Trade Varieties?
While tourmaline is often described simply by colour, the gem trade gives its most desirable varieties specific names based on colour, origin or chemistry. These names — like rubellite or indicolite — help buyers identify the finest, rarest stones, which can command far higher prices than ordinary tourmaline.
Rare and Valuable Tourmaline Types
Here are the named tourmaline varieties most prized in the gem world.
Prized Tourmaline Varieties at a Glance
| Tourmaline Type | Colour | Why It’s Prized |
|---|---|---|
| Paraiba | Neon blue-green | Rarest and most valuable; electric glow |
| Rubellite | Rich pink to red | Vivid, ruby-like colour |
| Indicolite | Blue to blue-green | Rare, deep blue tourmaline |
| Chrome | Vivid green | Bright emerald-like green (chromium) |
| Watermelon | Pink centre, green rim | Natural two-tone beauty |
| Bi-colour / Parti | Two or more colours | Striking colour zoning |
| Schorl (Black) | Black | Common, popular for protection |
The Most Famous Tourmaline Types
Paraiba Tourmaline
Paraiba is the crown jewel of the tourmaline family — a rare, copper-bearing variety first found in Brazil, famous for its glowing neon blue-green colour. Its rarity and vivid “electric” glow make it one of the most valuable coloured gemstones in the world.
Rubellite and Indicolite
Rubellite is the rich pink-to-red tourmaline, prized for its intense, ruby-like colour. Indicolite is the rare blue to blue-green variety, valued for its deep, uncommon blue — both are highly sought after by collectors.
Watermelon and Bi-Colour Tourmaline
Watermelon tourmaline shows a pink centre surrounded by a green rim, like the fruit, while bi-colour (parti) tourmaline displays two or more colours in a single crystal — both celebrated for their natural, artistic colour zoning. Learn more in our watermelon tourmaline guide.
Note: Rare tourmaline types like Paraiba can be expensive, so always buy from a trusted seller with proper certification to confirm the variety and that the stone is natural.
Explore More at AstroKapoor
For colour-and-chakra basics, read our types of tourmaline guide; for astrology and how to wear it, see our main tourmaline gemstone page; and explore watermelon tourmaline. Browse our full Gemstones collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rare types of tourmaline?
The rarest and most valuable tourmaline types include Paraiba (neon blue-green), rubellite (rich pink-red), indicolite (deep blue), chrome tourmaline (vivid green), watermelon (pink-and-green) and bi-colour tourmaline. These named varieties are prized by collectors far above ordinary tourmaline.
What is Paraiba tourmaline?
Paraiba is the crown jewel of the tourmaline family — a rare, copper-bearing variety first discovered in Brazil, famous for its glowing neon blue-green colour. Its rarity and electric glow make it one of the most valuable coloured gemstones in the world.
What is rubellite tourmaline?
Rubellite is the rich pink-to-red variety of tourmaline, prized for its intense, ruby-like colour. The deeper and more vivid the red, the more valuable the stone, making fine rubellite a favourite among collectors and jewellers.
What is the most valuable type of tourmaline?
Paraiba tourmaline is generally the most valuable type, thanks to its rarity and unique neon blue-green glow. Fine rubellite, indicolite and chrome tourmaline are also highly valued, with price depending on colour intensity, clarity and size.
How do I know a rare tourmaline is genuine?
Because rare tourmalines like Paraiba can be expensive, always buy from a trusted seller and insist on a laboratory certificate confirming the variety and that the stone is natural. Certification protects you from misidentified or imitation stones.
