Winter 2009

New Find of Pink-to-Red Tourmaline in Nigeria

Western Nigeria has been an important source of fine-quality gem tourmaline for several years, particularly of pink stones in the late 1990s (Winter 1998 Gem News, pp. 298–299). Recently, a significant deposit of pink-to-red tourmaline was found in the Oyo Valley of western Nigeria, according to Bill and Richard Barker (Barker & Co., Scottsdale, Arizona). In August 2009, they obtained a 20 kg parcel of this tourmaline that was notable for its high transparency and bright coloration. The largest piece weighed 7 kg and contained abundant gem-quality transparent areas (figure 1). It was so big (up to 28 cm in diameter and nearly 13 cm thick) that a large tile saw was required to make the initial cuts. As of November 2009, ~1,000 stones had been polished, weighing nearly 7,000 carats. Cutting of the stones to contain relatively few inclusions resulted in an overall yield of approximately 15%. The material fell into three main color groups: slightly purplish red (50%), darker red (10%), and “bubble gum” pink (40%). The largest stone weighed 53.45 ct, and several more were produced in the 20–40 ct range, as well as numerous calibrated goods ranging from 3 mm rounds to 14 × 10 mm ovals and cushions. The abundance of clean material showing consistent color has facilitated the creation of several necklace suites (e.g., figure 2).

According to Mr. Barker’s supplier in Nigeria, the deposit shows good potential for yielding additional pink-to-red tourmaline for the jewelry market.

Brendan M. Laurs