Paraiba tourmaline is one of the rarest (more than 10,000x rarer than diamonds!) gems on the planet. Its only known sources – in Paraiba, Brazil and Nigeria – were mined out years ago, so all of the stones are already in circulation. The coloration varies in hue from neon green to sky blue to indigo (photo below shows a small range of shades) – some of its shades are unique from any other naturally occurring stone on earth. The Paraiba variety is more vivid than other tourmalines because of its copper composition, so the hefty price tag has known to reach the tens of thousands per carat. It’s almost as hard to locate a trusted retailer for the jewel as it is to find the gem itself (always check with a lab to make sure yours is the real deal), but I found a gorgeous pair of Sara Weinstock earrings at Barneys. Connected to the post by one of Sara’s many symbolic signatures (a snake, which she believes represents protection), these earrings are an incredible heirloom investment and just as cool. As time goes on, Paraiba tourmaline will only increase in value so enjoy now and reap the rewards later! Available at Barney New York for $13,580.
Image Credit: Pillar & Stone
