Tourmaline Price Per Gram

Tourmaline Price Per Gram

Tourmaline is one of the most fascinating and diverse gemstones available in the market today. With its vast range of colors and crystal types,

tourmaline is not only prized in jewelry but also used in metaphysical and industrial applications. While gemstones are often priced per carat,

many collectors and bulk buyers prefer evaluating the price per gram—especially when buying raw or uncut stones. This article breaks down

the key factors that determine tourmaline’s price per gram, average market rates, and what to look for when buying.

Understanding Tourmaline Varieties

Tourmaline is a group of silicate minerals that come in many colors, including:

Black Tourmaline (Schorl) – Common, grounding stone

Green Tourmaline (Verdelite) – Popular in fine jewelry

Pink and Red Tourmaline (Rubellite) – Valued for vibrant hues

Blue Tourmaline (Indicolite) – Rare and sought after

Paraiba Tourmaline – Neon blue to green, extremely valuable

Watermelon Tourmaline – Bi-color (green and pink) crystal slices

The price per gram depends heavily on the type and quality of the tourmaline.

Carat vs. Gram: The Conversion

In gemstone pricing, 1 gram = 5 carats (since 1 carat = 0.2 grams). So when converting from price per carat to price per gram, multiply the carat

price by 5. This is particularly helpful when dealing with rough or uncut stones that are weighed in grams rather than carats.

Key Factors Influencing Tourmaline Price Per Gram

Type and Color

Paraiba Tourmaline is among the most expensive types, sometimes exceeding $25,000 per carat or $125,000 per gram. Rubellite and Indicolite

command high prices due to rarity and deep colors. Black Tourmaline, being more common, is much more affordable, typically costing just a few

dollars per gram.

Clarity and Transparency

Transparent and clean stones are more valuable. In rough stones, internal cracks, cloudiness, or inclusions lower the price.

Size and Weight

Larger crystals are generally more expensive per gram, especially if they are clean and of good quality. However, price per gram can decrease for

extremely large and included stones.

Form (Raw vs. Polished)

Raw Tourmaline is often cheaper per gram than polished or faceted stones. Tumbled stones, beads, or cut gems cost more due to added processing.

Origin

Paraiba Tourmaline from Brazil, for example, is significantly more expensive than similar material from Nigeria or Mozambique. Ethically sourced

and certified stones also tend to be priced higher.

Tourmaline Price Per Gram: Average Market Ranges (2025)

Prices can vary widely depending on quality, seller, and whether the material is cut, polished, or raw.

Buying Tips

Buy by weight with purpose: If you’re a jeweler or collector, focus on grams when purchasing in bulk. For finished gems, carats are more relevant.

Inspect before buying: For high-value stones like Paraiba, always ask for certification and inspect clarity and color in natural light.

Source from reputable sellers: Online platforms like Etsy, eBay, or specialized crystal stores can offer good deals, but always verify seller ratings

and product reviews.

Understand treatments: Some tourmalines are heat-treated to enhance color. While this is common, untreated stones are more valuable.

Conclusion

Tourmaline’s price per gram can range from just a few dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the variety and quality. While black and

common green tourmalines are affordable and accessible, rarer types like Paraiba can fetch premium prices. Whether you’re buying for

metaphysical use, jewelry making, or investment, understanding the price per gram allows you to make better and more informed decisions.

As always, work with trusted sellers and don’t hesitate to ask questions about origin, treatment, and certification.