Watermelon Tourmaline
A variety of Tourmaline Group
What is Watermelon Tourmaline?
Watermelon Tourmaline is a transparent tourmaline variety characterized by a pink center that is surrounded by a green outer layer, making it look like a watermelon. Due to its beauty and hardness, this is a popular, but affordable gemstone. It is used in the jewelry industry, where it is primarily turned into rings and pendants.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.614-1.666
- Birefringence
- 0.014-0.040
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
- Dispersion
- 0.017
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Watermelon Tourmaline before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Watermelon Tourmaline Localities Map
See where Watermelon Tourmaline is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Green rims on red or pink cores
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7 - 7.5
- Density
- 2.9 - 3.1 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous, Sub-vitreous
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- A(D3)G6(T6O18)(BO3)3X3Z
- Elements
- B, O

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Watermelon Tourmaline FAQs
How do I identify Watermelon Tourmaline?
Watermelon Tourmaline can be identified by its hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Green rims on red or pink cores color, Vitreous, Sub-vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Watermelon Tourmaline?
Watermelon Tourmaline typically appears in Green rims on red or pink cores. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Watermelon Tourmaline?
Watermelon Tourmaline has a hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.

