Updated as of June 2026
Paraiba Tourmaline
A copper-bearing tourmaline famous for its electric neon blue-green glow, among the most prized colored gems.
Price range$1,000 to $20,000/ct
Hardness (Mohs)7.25
ColorsBlue, Blue-green, Neon green
BirthstoneOctober
AltGems Score How we score
7.0/10
Paraiba Tourmaline pros and cons
Pros
- Good durability (Mohs 7.25) for most jewelry
- Exceptional brilliance and sparkle
- Rare and collectible
- A recognized birthstone (October)
Cons
- Commonly treated (heat treatment (common))
- Premium per-carat cost for fine quality
Paraiba Tourmaline is ideal for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings, and works in everyday rings with a protective setting.
Explore Paraiba Tourmaline
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestParaiba Tourmaline jewelry
Paraiba Tourmaline ringsParaiba Tourmaline engagement ringsParaiba Tourmaline necklacesParaiba Tourmaline pendantsParaiba Tourmaline earringsParaiba Tourmaline bracelets
Paraiba Tourmaline by cut
Round Paraiba TourmalineOval Paraiba TourmalineEmerald Cut Paraiba TourmalineCushion Paraiba TourmalinePrincess Paraiba TourmalinePear Paraiba TourmalineAll cuts
Paraiba Tourmaline ring styles
Paraiba Tourmaline solitaire ringParaiba Tourmaline halo ringParaiba Tourmaline three stone ringParaiba Tourmaline hidden halo ringParaiba Tourmaline vintage and antique ringParaiba Tourmaline bezel ringAll styles
Paraiba Tourmaline by metal
Paraiba Tourmaline in yellow goldParaiba Tourmaline in white goldParaiba Tourmaline in rose goldParaiba Tourmaline in platinumParaiba Tourmaline in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Overpaying at one retailer without comparing the same color and carat elsewhere.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and sudden temperature changes.
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Where to buy Paraiba Tourmaline: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Paraiba Tourmaline?
A copper-bearing tourmaline famous for its electric neon blue-green glow, among the most prized colored gems. It rates 7.25 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in blue, blue-green, neon green.
How much does Paraiba Tourmaline cost?
Paraiba Tourmaline typically runs about $1,000 to $20,000 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Paraiba Tourmaline price guide for detail.
Is Paraiba Tourmaline good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 7.25 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Paraiba Tourmaline?
Paraiba Tourmaline earns an overall AltGems Score of 7.0 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Paraiba Tourmaline?
Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and sudden temperature changes.