Green Tourmaline vs Emerald are two gemstones that share a similar green colour, but they are different in many ways. Green Tourmaline, a variety of mineral tourmaline, is a mesmerising gemstone renowned for its stunning green colouration. With a wide range of hues, from delicate and light shades to deep forest greens, this gemstone is considered one of the most valuable and sought-after of its kind. Its magnificent colour is attributed to the presence of iron and chromium in its crystal structure, which can result in varying intensities and shades of green.
Whereas Emerald, a captivating and mesmerising gemstone, has long been treasured for its enchanting green hue and exceptional beauty. As a variety of the mineral beryl, it is known for its vivid and lush green colour, which is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium. Emeralds can range in colour from pale and subtle to intense and deep, with a hint of blue that is often referred to as “jardin”, meaning garden in French, which represents the unique natural inclusions found within the gemstone.
Difference Between Green Tourmaline Vs Emerald
| Green Tourmaline Gemstone | Emerald Gemstone |
| Colour: Green Tourmaline can range in colour from light and pale green to a deep and lush forest green. The colour can be influenced by the presence of other minerals or impurities, which can add hues of yellow, brown, or blue. In some cases, Green Tourmaline may even display a neon-like glow or a unique bi-color appearance. This variety of colours makes it a versatile and desirable gemstone for jewellery making. | Colour: Emerald typically has a deeper and more intense green colour, often with a slight blue tint. This unique blue-green hue is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium in the mineral’s composition. The colour of Emerald can also be influenced by its inclusions, which can give it a cloudy or hazy appearance. |
| Composition: Green Tourmaline is a variety of the mineral Tourmaline, which is a complex borosilicate mineral that can contain a range of elements such as aluminium, iron, magnesium, lithium, and sodium. The composition of Green Tourmaline can vary depending on the specific locality where it was formed, which can influence its colour and physical properties. Some Green Tourmaline specimens may even contain trace amounts of copper or manganese, which can cause it to fluoresce under ultraviolet light. | Composition: Emerald, is a variety of the mineral Beryl, which is a beryllium aluminium cyclosilicate. The green colour of Emerald is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium in its composition. Additionally, Emerald can contain trace amounts of other elements such as iron, manganese, or beryllium, which can affect its colour and properties. |
| Hardness: Green Tourmaline has a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, which means that it is relatively hard and durable but still prone to scratches and chipping. This makes it a suitable gemstone for everyday wear, but care must be taken to avoid any harsh impact or contact with abrasive surfaces. | Hardness: Emerald is slightly harder than Green Tourmaline, with a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale. While this may seem like a small difference, it can significantly impact the gemstone’s durability and resistance to damage. The increased hardness of Emerald makes it less susceptible to scratches, chipping, and cracking, which makes it a popular choice for engagement rings and other types of jewellery that are worn frequently. However, it’s important to note that even though Emerald is harder than Green Tourmaline, it still has a brittle nature due to its crystal structure. |
| Origin: Green Tourmaline can be found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, and Nigeria. The specific locality where the Green Tourmaline was formed can influence its colour, with some specimens exhibiting a bluish-green or yellowish-green hue. Additionally, some Green Tourmaline specimens may contain trace amounts of copper or manganese, which can cause them to fluoresce under ultraviolet light. | Origin: Emerald, on the other hand, is known for its historic association with Colombia, where it was mined as early as 500 BCE. Colombian Emeralds are famous for their rich, deep green colour, which is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium in the gemstone’s composition. Other significant sources of Emeralds include Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan, each of which can produce unique variations in colour and clarity. |
| Origin: Emerald, on the other hand, is known for its historic association with Colombia, where it was mined as early as 500 BCE. Colombian Emeralds are famous for their rich, deep green colour, which is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium in the gemstone’s composition. Other significant sources of Emerald include Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan, each of which can produce unique variations in colour and clarity. | Benefits: Emerald is associated with the planet Mercury and is believed to enhance communication, clarity, and mental focus. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to help balance the throat chakra and promote self-expression and confidence. Additionally, Emerald is thought to have a powerful healing energy, promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. |
| Ideal wearer: Green Tourmaline is believed to offer a nurturing, protective energy that can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are sensitive or empathetic. It is often recommended for healers, artists, and individuals who work in caretaking professions, as it can help them maintain a sense of balance and emotional stability. Additionally, Green Tourmaline is thought to be a powerful stone for individuals who are experiencing heartbreak or emotional trauma, as it can promote healing and self-love. | Benefits: Green Tourmaline is associated with the planet Venus and is believed to enhance creativity, compassion, and emotional healing. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to help balance the heart chakra and promote a sense of calm and inner peace. Additionally, Green Tourmaline is thought to have protective energy, shielding the wearer from negative influences and enhancing their ability to manifest their intentions. |
| Ideal wearer: Emerald, hand, is believed to offer a clarifying, energising energy that can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are seeking to enhance their mental focus and communication skills. It is often recommended for writers, speakers, and individuals who work in fields that require clear and concise communication. Additionally, the Emerald is thought to be a powerful stone for individuals who are seeking to enhance their personal power and manifest their intentions. | Rarity: Emerald, is a much rarer gemstone and is primarily found in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. The quality and value of Emeralds can vary greatly depending on their colour, clarity, and size, and fine specimens can command very high prices. Due to their rarity and beauty, Emeralds are often considered to be one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. |
| Value: Green Tourmaline, while not as rare or valuable as Emerald, can still command high prices depending on its quality. Fine examples of Green Tourmaline with a vivid, intense colour and excellent clarity can be quite valuable. However, due to the abundance of Green Tourmaline, it is generally more affordable than Emerald. | Value: Emeralds are widely considered to be one of the most valuable gemstones in the world, and their value can vary greatly depending on their colour, clarity, and size. In general, the more vivid and intense the green colour of an Emerald, the more valuable it is. Larger, more transparent, and more flawlessly cut stones are also considered to be more valuable. |
Conclusion
Green Tourmaline vs Emerald are two highly prized gemstones that are often compared due to their similar green colour. However, they differ significantly in terms of their composition, hardness, origin, astrological benefits, and rarity, among other factors.
Green Tourmaline is a popular gemstone that is often chosen for its affordability and beauty, while Emerald is known for its rarity, value, and prestige. Both gemstones have unique characteristics that make them desirable to different people, depending on their preferences and budget.
When deciding between Green Tourmaline and Emerald, it’s important to consider factors such as the colour, clarity, size, and quality of the gemstone, as well as its origin and astrological benefits. While Emeralds are generally rarer and more valuable than Green Tourmaline, there are exceptions, and some types of Green Tourmaline can be quite valuable and difficult to find.
The choice between these two gemstones will depend on a variety of factors, including personal preference, budget, and the specific qualities and attributes you are looking for in a gemstone. Regardless of which gemstone you choose, both Green Tourmaline and Emerald are beautiful and highly prized gemstones that are sure to make a statement in any jewellery piece.
FAQs
Is Green Tourmaline more expensive than Emerald?
The price of green tourmaline and emerald can vary depending on their quality, size, and source. In general, high-quality emeralds are more expensive than green tourmaline, especially those that have a deep, vivid green colour and minimal inclusions. However, there are some exceptions where rare and large green tourmaline specimens can be more expensive than lower-quality emeralds. It’s always best to compare the specific stones you are considering to make an informed decision about pricing.
Which is better, Emerald or Tourmaline?
The answer to this question depends on your personal preference and the purpose of the gemstone. Emeralds are known for their stunning green colour, but they can be relatively brittle and prone to cracking or chipping. On the other hand, green tourmaline has a similar colour to emeralds but is generally considered to be more durable and resistant to damage. If you’re looking for a gemstone for everyday wear, green tourmaline may be a better choice. However, if you value the prestige and rarity of emeralds and don’t mind taking extra care to protect them, an emerald may be the better choice for you.
Is Green Tourmaline valuable?
Yes, green tourmaline is valuable, but the value depends on the quality of the stone. The value of a green tourmaline is based on factors such as its colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most valuable green tourmalines are those that have a deep, intense green colour, high clarity, and minimal inclusions. Large, high-quality green tourmaline specimens can be quite valuable, particularly if they come from a rare or sought-after source. As with any gemstone, it’s important to have an expert evaluate the stone before making a purchase to ensure you are getting a fair price.
