At llyn strong fine art jewelry, bold color and expert craftsmanship define luxury. Nestled in Midtown Greenville, near Falls Park and the Liberty Bridge, our shop + studio is home to striking, one-of-a-kind fine art jewelry. If you’re drawn to vibrant gemstones, you’ve likely encountered the dazzling Paraiba tourmaline—one of the rarest and most sought-after stones. But how can you be sure it’s the real deal? Here’s what to look for.
llyn strong fine art jewelry is located in Greenville, SC, and specializes in creating custom-made fine art jewelry. Browse our online inventory of fine art jewelry. Contact us today at 864-233-5900 or visit our storefront at 1322 E Washington St Suite C1, Greenville, SC 29607. Let us help you reimagine, re-think and re-invent your jewelry collection!
What Makes Paraiba Tourmaline Special?
Paraiba tourmaline stands apart with its intense neon blue, turquoise, and green hues. The vivid glow and rarity make it a statement piece for those who appreciate bold, high-end jewelry.
Key Features:
- Copper and Manganese Content – The electrifying color comes from copper, a defining characteristic of genuine Paraiba tourmaline.
- Origin Matters – First found in Paraiba, Brazil, similar stones have been discovered in Mozambique and Nigeria. Brazilian stones remain the most valuable.
- Vibrancy – These gemstones have an almost unnatural brilliance, appearing to glow even in dim light.
Examining Color and Saturation
Color plays a huge role in determining authenticity. Unlike other gemstones that rely on artificial treatments, Paraiba’s striking hue is largely natural, with only minor enhancements.
What to Look For:
- Deep, electric blues and greens stand out as the most valuable shades.
- A strong copper-induced glow is a sign of authenticity.
- Pale or dull colors might indicate a lower-quality stone or an imitation.
Spotting Natural Inclusions
Brazilian Paraiba tourmalines often contain natural inclusions, which signal authenticity rather than imperfections. A stone that looks flawless might not be the real thing.
Common Inclusions in Genuine Stones:
- Feather-like textures within the stone
- Thread-like copper deposits
- Silk-like inclusions visible under magnification
Confirming the Origin
Paraiba tourmalines from Brazil command the highest prices, but stones from Africa can still be valuable. Always request a gemological certificate verifying the origin. Brazilian stones are significantly rarer and often more expensive.
Testing with Light
A simple way to check a stone’s authenticity is by examining how it reacts under different lighting conditions.
- Under natural sunlight, the color should remain intense and bright.
- Under LED or fluorescent light, a genuine Paraiba tourmaline will still appear vibrant.
- If the color looks muted or changes significantly, it may not be authentic.
Understanding the Price Range
Paraiba tourmalines are among the most expensive gemstones. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Typical Price Ranges:
- $10,000 – $50,000 per carat for high-quality Brazilian stones.
- $2,000 – $10,000 per carat for fine African Paraiba tourmalines.
Insist on Certification
Any reputable jeweler should provide certification confirming a Paraiba tourmaline’s authenticity. Look for:
- Reports from GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society)
- Copper content verification to ensure it’s a true Paraiba tourmaline
- Documentation of origin to distinguish Brazilian stones from African ones
At llyn strong fine art jewelry, every rare gemstone in our collection meets the highest standards of authenticity. Our shop + studio in Midtown Greenville is home to statement-making designs featuring only the finest materials.
Work with a Trusted Jeweler
Greenville is known for its fine art scene, with museums and galleries at every turn. Our clients understand the value of true artistry, and buying a Paraiba tourmaline should reflect that same level of care. Skip mass-market retailers and choose a jeweler who specializes in luxury and fine art jewelry.
How to Recognize a Reputable Jeweler:
- Deep expertise in rare gemstones
- A portfolio showcasing custom-designed pieces with high-end stones
- A commitment to heirloom-quality craftsmanship
At llyn strong fine art jewelry, we specialize in 18k yellow, rose, or white gold settings for those who seek sophisticated yet striking designs. Every piece we create tells a story, meant to be treasured for generations.
A genuine Paraiba tourmaline is more than just a gemstone—it’s a rare and breathtaking statement. If you’re looking for something truly special, visit our shop + studio in Midtown Greenville. Let’s create something extraordinary.
Other popular blogs to check out:
- World’s Largest Gem Shows, Tucson Arizona
- How to Style Gemstones for a Timeless Look
- Amethyst is for February
- 5 Common Myths About Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
- How Rubies Became the Symbol of Passion and Power
- How to Transform Heirlooms into Modern Custom Jewelry
- 7 Powerful Trends in Fine Art Jewelry That Are Shaping the Future
- A Guide to Understanding Fine Art Jewelry Materials
- 5 Reasons to Invest in High-Quality Custom Jewelry