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Pink tourmaline (elbaite) cabochons in milky and smoky quartz, available in oval and teardrop shapes, between 11 and 15 mm in maximum length. The tourmaline needles create floral patterns on the white quartz base: radial structures and pink dendrites that vary in density and distribution in each piece. Cut and polished by hand in an artisanal workshop.
Item details
| Mineral |
Pink Tourmaline (Elbaite) in Quartz |
| Scientific name |
Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄ / SiO₂ |
| Hardness |
7–7.5 Mohs (quartz) / 7–7.5 Mohs (tourmaline) |
| Crystal system |
Trigonal |
| Origin |
Brazil |
| Dimensions |
nr.1 · oval, approx. 15×9 mm · 4-6 mm thickness
nr.2 · teardrop, approx. 13×8 mm · 4-6 mm thickness
nr.3 · small oval, approx. 11×7 mm · 4-6 mm thickness
nr.4 · small teardrop, approx. 12×8 mm · 4-6 mm thickness |
| Finish |
High polish, flat back |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Unique piece |
Yes — each cabochon is unique and unrepeatable |
Item features
Pink tourmaline appears as prismatic needles trapped within the crystal lattice of quartz. In these cabochons, the quartz acts as a matrix: it provides structural hardness (7–7.5 Mohs) and partial transparency, allowing the inclusions to be seen in depth. The color varies between pale peony pink and intense fuchsia pink depending on the concentration of manganese in the chemical composition of the elbaite.
The quartz base can be milky white or slightly smoky; both variants enhance the contrast with the pink of the tourmaline.
Jewelry applications
The hardness of 7–7.5 Mohs allows these cabochons to be set in 925 silver using standard goldsmithing techniques:
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Bezel setting (recommended): protects the cabochon's profile and highlights its shape. Ideal for everyday pendants and rings.
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Prong setting: allows the side profile of the inclusions to be seen from different angles.
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Wire wrapping in 925 silver: the oval and teardrop shapes are ideal for wire compositions. Nr.1 (large oval) accommodates complex multi-layered designs.
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Statement rings: nr.1 (approx. 15×9 mm) is the appropriate scale for a solitaire ring in silver.
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Paired earrings: nr.3 and nr.4 (11-12 mm) are most suitable due to their light weight.
The pink-white combination is neutral and versatile: it works well with both oxidized silver (which enhances contrast) and mirror-polished silver.
History and cultural significance
Pink tourmaline is a variety of elbaite, a complex group of minerals from the tourmaline group. The pink color is due to manganese in its molecular structure. Brazil is the main global source of high-quality tourmalines, especially varieties with visible inclusions in quartz. In the cultural tradition of stones, pink tourmaline is associated with compassion and emotional connection.
Care guide
- Clean with warm water and a soft microfiber cloth
- Avoid ultrasonics: tourmaline inclusions can create internal tensions that amplify with vibrations
- Avoid extreme temperatures and sudden temperature changes
- Avoid prolonged exposure to chemicals (acetone, acidic or alkaline cleaners)
- Store separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching
Frequently asked questions
How big are each variant exactly?
The indicated dimensions (11-15 mm) are approximate as each piece is freeform and not calibrated. Nr.1 is the largest (approx. 15×9 mm), nr.3 and nr.4 are the smallest (approx. 11-12 mm). As these are unique pieces, exact measurements may vary by ±1-2 mm from the reference.
Is it durable enough for everyday jewelry?
With a hardness of 7–7.5 Mohs, these cabochons are suitable for regular use in jewelry. We recommend a bezel setting for everyday use in rings, as it protects the edges. For pendants and earrings, any type of setting is suitable.
Can the tourmaline be seen in depth?
Yes. The needles are distributed within the quartz. The high polish and semi-transparency allow the inclusions to be seen at different depths by rotating the piece under direct light.
