gemstone

Pink tourmaline (rubellite)

Elbaite tourmaline, lithium sodium aluminum borosilicate: Na(Li1.5Al1.5)Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7–7.5 Mohs; pink to reddish-pink, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal structure, commonly elongated prismatic crystals with indistinct cleavage. The rectangular faceted cut and strong internal reflections are consistent with a processed gemstone.

Identified September 12, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Pink tourmaline (rubellite)
Scientific name: Elbaite tourmaline, lithium sodium aluminum borosilicate: Na(Li1.5Al1.5)Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $20–$150 for commercial cut stones; $200–$2,000+ for fine transparent natural material, depending on size, color, clarity, origin, and treatment.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites through late-stage hydrothermal crystallization, commonly during Precambrian to Mesozoic granite emplacement. Major sources include Brazil, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, and the United States.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry and mineral collections; fine transparent stones can be valuable, while darker or included material is commonly cabochon-cut or sold as specimens.

Geological facts

Pink tourmaline is strongly pleochroic and often shows color zoning; “rubellite” generally refers to saturated red to pink tourmaline, though usage varies.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its pink color, vitreous luster, hardness, and frequent pleochroism; a refractometer, specific gravity around 3.0–3.3, and inclusion study help distinguish it from glass or synthetic stones. The image alone cannot confirm species or treatment.