An Important Paraiba Tourmaline and Diamond Ring. Estimate: $550,000–650,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
Discovered only in the late 20th century, Paraiba tourmalines have made waves since debuting in the fine gemstone category, where emeralds, rubies, and sapphires have reigned. The irresistible draw of this gemstone is its unmatched, almost unearthly color, which ranges from a vivid, neon blue to green and every shade in between. The result is due to the presence of trace chemical elements copper and manganese, with varieties known as electric or neon blue containing the highest levels of copper.
A Paraiba Tourmaline and Diamond Pendant Necklace. Estimate: $200,000–300,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
Paraiba tourmalines originate from Brazil and Mozambique — the Paraíba state of Brazil was the first to discover the copper-bearing gem tourmaline, with Mozambique following soon after. Paraiba tourmaline tells a fascinating geological story. When we look at the map and the positions of these two gem-famous continents — South America and Africa — and recall the collision of landmasses that took place a mere 650 to 480 million years ago, their colorful connection is revealed. Once a supercontinent, now thousands of miles apart, they remain tied together by beautiful deposits of copper-bearing gem tourmalines to marvel.
Tiffany & Co., Paraiba Tourmaline and Diamond Ring. Estimate: $50,000–60,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
What lies beneath seemingly ordinary ground remains largely unseen — but in this case, what has emerged is exceptionally rare. With only these small known deposits, these gemstones are among the scarcest in the world. Demand for these most vividly hued gems has surged, drawing the attention of high jewelry collectors and leading luxury houses.
Tiffany & Co. stands out for creating some of the most beautiful Paraiba tourmaline jewelry and for recognizing the gemstone’s unique qualities very early on. Tiffany & Co. is a company with a storied history of introducing new gems to the world, and without surprise, Paraiba tourmalines are one of them, having recognized the gemstone’s unique qualities very early on.
This auction offers the opportunity to own this rare and magnificent gem and to explore the natural variety and beauty of its colors, whether worn on the finger, ear, or neck in Lots 7, 81, 82, 88, and 98.