Pink Tourmaline is a variety of Tourmaline that can be found in pale light pink, to bright hot pink. This mineral can be seen in raw, transparent, and opaque formations. It’s commonly found in association with Quartz, and other Tourmaline colors. Do not confuse this stone with Rubellite (Red Tourmaline), although they can be found within the same mines.
California has been known to produce some of the most amazing Pink Tourmaline specimens, and also has a history of trading them. Chinese Empress Tz’u Hsi became captivated by this gem in the mid to late 1800’s, and soon set up a direct trade line with California Tourmaline mines. Some of the most beautiful specimens at the time were being pulled out of San Diego area mines like the Pala Chief, Tourmaline King & Queen, Himalaya, and Stewart. This very important trade line lasted up until 1912 when the Chinese government fell. Fast forward around a hundred years, and Stewart mine is still producing some amazing gem quality Pink Tourmaline.
Other notable localities include Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and parts of Africa.
