Rubellite Tourmaline

Item Description

Rubellite Tourmalines are some of the most sought after and valuable Tourmaline gems, beloved for their rich pink and red hues. The name is from the Latin word ''rubellus'' = ''reddish'', and they are quite similar in color to Rubies. This stone is a classic Brazilian example with a vibrant pink hue, and only VERY slight inclusions. Tourmalines are not often seen in such "clean" examples, as they are classified as a "Type 3" gemstone, which means inclusions are almost always present, and accepted by dealers and collectors. A beautiful fiery stone of this well-known material from Brazil.
These stones are from the estate of former Phoenix area dealer Marvin Rockey. Rockey's Gems was a significant business in the early days of Arizona lapidary material, and he was a prominent dealer and buyer in the Arizona area of local lapidary and carving material from throughout the state, including Bisbee, the Ray Mine, Miami mines, and the Peridot finds on Indian lands in the 1950s-1970s. This stone was kept back from the retail stock for its quality and beauty, in a tray of special material, and was found in his estate (sold to us only recently). Today, these are not only rarely seen but of a highly desirable old quality, and sought after by collectors and gem / jewelry enthusiasts alike.