35. Tourmaline Part II: The King of Tourmaline...?

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of FacetNation, Simon and Lucinda delve into the fascinating world of tourmaline, particularly focusing on its significance in San Diego's gemstone history and the impact of the Dowager Empress Cixi on the pink tourmaline market. They explore the rise and fall of the tourmaline industry, the unique characteristics of the stone, and the methods used to identify it. The conversation is rich with historical anecdotes and insights into the gemmology field, making it an engaging listen for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Also in this episode, Lucinda and Simon delve into the fascinating world of tourmaline, exploring its color variations, treatments, and the rise of Paraiba tourmaline as a highly sought-after gemstone. They discuss the geological origins of Paraiba tourmaline, its global appeal, and highlight famous examples, including the Ethereal Carolina Divine Paraiba. The episode concludes with a look at the stunning Liddicoat tourmaline slice, showcasing the beauty and complexity of this remarkable gemstone.Tourmaline is a significant gemstone with various types.San Diego has a rich history of gemstone mining.The Dowager Empress Cixi played a crucial role in popularising pink tourmaline.Zixi's love for pink tourmaline influenced the gemstone market.The decline of the tourmaline market followed Cixi's death.Testing tourmaline requires specific techniques due to its colour variations.Tourmaline can be mistaken for other gemstones.Historical context enhances the value of gemstones.Gemstones often have fascinating stories behind them.Understanding gemstone history can enrich appreciation for them. Some stones show two completely different colours.Watermelon tourmalines need both pleochroic responses listed.Tourmaline can be treated to enhance colour.Paraiba tourmaline is the most valuable type.The discovery of Paraiba tourmaline changed the market.Paraiba tourmaline's price skyrocketed due to rarity.Geological events created the conditions for tourmaline formation.Nigerian and Mozambican tourmalines are similar to Brazilian Paraiba.Famous tourmalines often have historical significance.The Liddicoat tourmaline slice is a stunning example of tourmaline beauty.The Allure of Tourmaline: A Gemstone JourneyUnveiling San Diego's Gemstone SecretsThe Legacy of the Dowager Empress CixiTourmaline: From Mine to Market"She banned foot binding.""It's a serious bottleneck.""It's called Heitorita.""It looks like stained glass."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tourmaline Part Two02:30 Exploring San Diego's Gemstone History05:57 The Dowager Empress Cixi and Pink Tourmaline17:20 The Decline of the Tourmaline Market18:22 Testing Tourmaline: Identification Techniques22:01 Understanding Tourmaline's Colour Variations25:01 The Treatment and Enhancement of Tourmaline26:17 The Discovery of Paraiba Tourmaline30:39 The Rise of Paraiba Tourmaline's Value34:00 Geological Origins of Paraiba Tourmaline38:25 The Global Appeal of Paraiba Tourmaline39:05 Famous Paraiba Tourmalines and Their Significance42:30 The Liddicoat Tourmaline Slice and Its Beautytourmaline, gemstones, San Diego, Dowager Empress Cixi, gemmology, pink tourmaline, gemstone testing, history, gem market, California tourmaline, Paraiba tourmaline, gemstone treatment, colour variations, gemmology, gemstone value, geological origins, famous gemstones, Liddicoat tourmalineSupport the show