Green Tourmaline: Meaning, Symbolic Properties, Care

What is green tourmaline?

The green variety of elbaite, a tourmaline rich in lithium and aluminium, is called verdelite. Its hardness is 7 to 7.5. The green can be pale, bluish or deep, depending on the presence of iron, manganese or, in very intense greens, vanadium (which is why people speak of “chrome tourmaline”, even though vanadium is often the colouring agent).

Green tourmaline is pleochroic: the same crystal changes shade depending on the angle from which it is viewed (a dark green in one direction, a lighter green in another). Cutters therefore orient the stone to bring out its most attractive colour. It is found in pegmatites in Brazil, Tanzania, Mozambique, Madagascar, Afghanistan and Namibia.

A long confusion with emerald

Before modern mineralogical analysis, transparent green stones were often called “emeralds”. According to a common account, green crystals brought back from Brazil in the colonial era were later found to be tourmalines. This story is hard to prove in detail, but it shows why a stone’s name is not enough: only gemmological analysis settles the question. Emerald is a beryl; green tourmaline has neither the same composition nor the same hardness.

Traditional symbolism

Green is the colour of nature and renewal. Modern tradition associates green tourmaline with personal growth, vitality and balance, particularly in connection with the heart and nature. It is suggested to accompany a project, a move or a period of renewal.

These associations are symbolic, have no proven effect, and do not replace medical advice.

Traditional correspondences

See the heart chakra.

How to use it

• In a ring, pendant or earrings: a hard gemstone that is pleasant to wear every day.
• As a raw crystal: a green point placed on a plant or a desk, as a natural decoration.
• As beads for a bracelet or necklace in a soft shade.
• In meditation: held in the hand, at rest, for a quiet pause.

Green tourmaline likes light: a crystal placed near a window (but not in direct, strong sunlight) shows the full depth of its green. For jewellery, choose a setting that protects the edges, and take it off before cleaning or gardening.

Care and cleansing

Green tourmaline is sturdy and can be washed in lukewarm water with mild soap. Dry it well. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and solvents if the stone is cracked or filled. Knocks to the edges or to raw points should be avoided. Very prolonged exposure to strong heat can alter the colour of some stones, so as a precaution do not leave it near a radiator or behind a window in full sun.

For symbolic cleansing: gentle smoke or moonlight. More details in cleansing and recharging your stones.

Treatments and imitations

• Heating: used to lighten or change certain shades, especially greens that are too dark or brownish.
• Filling: oil or resin may be used to fill fractures in some stones.
• Imitations: green glass, peridot, dyed quartz, green beryl, or laboratory-grown crystals.
• A perfectly vivid green sold cheaply should prompt caution; check what the stone really is before you buy.

How to choose one

Compare the shades in daylight. Clear, luminous greens are more sought after than very dark greens. Green tourmalines are generally more affordable than emerald. Pair it with pink tourmaline, peridot or green aventurine. See also how to choose and care for your stones.

Frequently asked questions

Also read

The meanings mentioned belong to tradition and symbolism. They are neither promises of results nor medical advice. Back to Guide to stones.