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The Ultimate Guide to Buying Paraiba Tourmaline: Pricing, Quality, and Investment Potential

Updated: 2 days ago



What is Paraiba Tourmaline?

Discovered in the late 1980s in the Brazilian state of Paraíba, this gem took the industry by storm with its unique, electric colors. Unlike other tourmalines, Paraibas contain copper, which produces the highly saturated “neon” effect that’s now iconic in fine jewelry. Since then, similar copper-bearing tourmalines have been found in Mozambique and Nigeria.

What Makes Paraiba Tourmaline Unique?

Paraiba Tourmaline's distinctive Neon/electric glow is attributed to trace amounts of copper and manganese, which impart its signature neon coloration. This internal luminescence sets it apart from other gemstones, earning it a special place in high-end jewelry collections.

Understanding Quality: The 4Cs & How to Evaluate Paraiba Tourmaline

  1. Color

    The most prized Paraiba Tourmalines exhibit a vivid neon blue or green hue. Stones with intense saturation and even color distribution command higher prices.

    • Top-tier: Intense neon blue, turquoise, or bluish-green with vivid saturation.

    • Highly prized: Stones with no grey or brown modifiers.

    • Brazilian stones: tend to be more vivid and are typically the most expensive

  2. Clarity

    While inclusions are common in Paraiba Tourmalines, especially larger ones, eye-clean stones are more valuable. However, inclusions are acceptable if the color is good.

  3. Cut

    A well-executed cut enhances the stone's brilliance and color. Common cuts include oval, pear, and cushion shapes, tailored to maximize the gem's natural beauty.

  4. Carat Weight

Larger Paraiba Tourmalines are exceedingly rare. As the carat weight increases, so does the price per carat, especially for stones with superior color and clarity.

  • High-quality stones over 2 carats are rare.

  • Brazilian Paraibas over 5 carats are investment-grade collectibles.


Pricing Insights per carat.

Paraiba Tourmaline prices vary based on origin, color intensity, clarity, and size. Here's a general overview:

  • Brazilian Origin: Highly coveted, Brazilian Paraiba Tourmalines can fetch between $10,000 to $150,000+ per carat. Exceptional stones may command even higher prices.

  • Mozambique Origin: Known for producing stones with vibrant colors, prices range from $100 to $50,000 per carat, depending on quality.

  • Nigerian Origin: Generally more affordable, with prices ranging from $70 to $50,000 per carat, based on color and clarity.

At AlifGems.com, our collection spans a diverse range of Paraiba Tourmalines:

  • 🔥 Ultra-Rare 47.11 Ct GRS Certified Paraiba Tourmaline: $95,000

  • Premium 4.04 ct Deep Neon Blue Paraiba Tourmaline: $28,000

  • GIA Certified 16.29 ct Neon Blue Paraiba Tourmaline: $27,625

  • Rare 239.99 ct Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Layout: $120,000

  • Certified Neon Blue Paraiba Tourmaline 1.01 ct: $2,100

These examples illustrate the wide spectrum of options available to collectors and enthusiasts.

Is Paraiba Tourmaline a Good Investment?

Absolutely. Here's why:

Paraiba Tourmaline's rarity and increasing demand have solidified its status as a valuable investment gemstone. With Brazilian mines largely depleted, high-quality stones are becoming scarcer, driving up prices. Investors should focus on stones with:

  • Limited Supply: Brazilian mines produce very little now, only African mines are producing.

  • Global Demand: Strong in Thailand, Japan, China, UAE, Europe, and the U.S.

  • Rising Value: Prices have risen dramatically over the past 3 years.

  • Desirability: Known as one of the “rarest gems on Earth.”

High-quality Paraiba Tourmalines, especially certified Brazilian stones over 3 carats, are highly collectible and can appreciate significantly.


Tips for Buying Paraiba Tourmaline

  1. Always demand certification (GIA, GRS, AIGS).

  2. Choose trusted dealers with a track record (like AlifGems).

  3. Request origin reports to determine if it’s Brazilian or African.

  4. Understand enhancement: Most stones are heated; this is acceptable if disclosed.

  5. Compare prices per carat based on size, origin, and certification.


Why Buy from AlifGems?

  • Certified by GIA, GRS,GIT, GUILD, LOTUS and AIGS

  • Direct source of Paraiba Tourmalines from Brazil, Mozambique, and Nigeria and from the dealers in Hong Kong and Bangkok.

  • Exclusive custom jewelry designs

  • Wholesale and collector-grade pricing


    Conclusion

    Paraiba Tourmaline's captivating beauty and rarity make it a prized addition to any jewelry collection or investment portfolio. By understanding its unique characteristics and market dynamics, buyers can make informed decisions and appreciate the true value of this extraordinary gemstone.

    For a curated selection of certified Paraiba Tourmalines, visit AlifGems.com.


Visit our collection: Paraiba Tourmaline Collection →



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