mineral

Paraiba Tourmaline

Elbaite Tourmaline (Na(Li,Al)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4) - Copper-bearing

Hardness: 7 to 7.5; Color: Neon blue, turquoise, or vivid green due to copper and manganese; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.06.

Hardness: 7 to 7
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 to 7.5; Color: Neon blue, turquoise, or vivid green due to copper and manganese; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.06.

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites through hydrothermal processes. Most specimens are from the late Cretaceous to early Tertiary periods. Notable neon hues require the presence of trace copper.

Uses & applications

High-end luxury jewelry, investment-grade gemstone collecting, and extremely rare mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Discovered in 1989 by Heitor Dimas Barbosa in the Brazilian state of Paraíba. It is one of the world's rarest and most expensive gemstones because of its unique 'neon' glow.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its intense 'electric' blue or green hue and associated pegmatite minerals. Found in Paraíba/Rio Grande do Norte (Brazil), Nigeria, and Mozambique. Collectors look for high copper content and 'neon' saturation.

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