Rubellite

Rubellite (from the Latin word for red) is the name given to the pink or red varieties of tourmaline. The ruby-red stones are the most prized. Members of the Rubellite sub-family of tourmaline occur in many different shades of pink and red. Rubellite crystals are striated, with a triangular cross-section and a rounded outline. They may also occur with a fibrous habit, and show a cat’s eye when cut en cabochon.

The specific gravity (SG) of tourmaline varies with color as dark red has a higher SG than pink.

Occurrence

Russian pink and red tourmaline occurs in weathered granites. Other sites include Madagascar, Brazil, Myanmar (Burma), Madagascar, and East Africa.

Rubellite Properties

• Specific Gravity: 3.06
• Refractive Index: 1.62-1.64
• Birefringence (DR): 0.018
• Luster: Vitreous
• Crystal Structure: Trigonal
• Composition: Complex borosilicate
• Hardness: 7½

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Birthstone

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