by Thomas G. Cloud - January 9, 2001

Turamali, Inc. has acquired ninety-two Ouro Fino rubellites for immediate sale. Before I address the attributes of this particular colored stone, I would like to provide you with some background information on the entire tourmaline family.

Background
No mineral or gemstone in the world illustrates a wider range of colors than the tourmaline family. The 19th century scientist, John Ruskin, is quoted as follows in remarking about this unique gem. "The chemistry of it is more like a mid-evil doctor's prescription, than the making of a respectable mineral." Most of the tourmalines that we know represent two species known as elbaite and liddicoatite. Tourmaline occurs in more colors than any other gemstone with the total easily exceeding more than one hundred hues and shades. Although still not as widely known to the public as say, rubies and diamond, tourmaline is becoming increasingly popular due to its expanding use in jewelry and fashion accessories.

By far, the most popular tourmaline colors are blue, blue/green, green, pink and red. But, red tourmalines (more commonly called "rubellites") are extremely rare and are in the most demand of all colors in the tourmaline family. As we move into the red color shades, prices increase as we go from pink to violet, and finally to red. The chemical element that makes a tourmaline red is chiefly manganese. This chemical element does not fit well into the tourmaline crystal-like structure. This disrupts the growth process making it difficult for tourmaline to develop a finer red color while at the same time remain free of imperfections. The situation is very similar to that of emeralds. Therefore, it is perfectly normal for tourmalines to have slight imperfections, but these are usually not obtrusive.

The rubellites we are presently offering were actually discovered in 1983 in the Ouro Fino region of Brazil. The mine was quickly exhausted and in just two short years (i.e., by 1985), no new Ouro Fino rubellite was available in the marketplace. This rare collector stone has long been in demand primarily by collectors and by those searching for the perfect stone to make a classic piece of jewelry (usually a pendant).

Our Offer
The ninety-two stones Turamali has acquired are available in the following shapes: oval, pear, emerald cut, and antique. The stones range in size from 3.50 carats up to several stones that are over 15 carats. The price is $65 per carat and this price is 15% below any dealer price available in today's market.

Return Policy
After you have picked a stone and once you receive an invoice, you should remit payment to Turamali. Your check will be placed in escrow which allows you ten business days to notify us should you decide for any reason to return the stone. If we do not hear from you within this ten-day period, Turamali will transfer your funds into our operating account. As an option, you can elect to have your stone graded by GSI Laboratories. This lab located in northern California would prepare a "colored stone analysis" (i.e., certificate) which includes a color photo of your stone and also lists a retail value. The first two stones we sent in to the lab as "samples" were appraised at $400 per carat (retail). The "estimated retail" price range for each of the stones in our inventory should run from $350 up to $500 per carat with an average of $400 per carat.

Closing Comment
Even if purchased as an investment stone, rubellites can be mounted and worn in jewelry. Rubellites are most suitable for pendants and earrings; however, rings are generally considered a safe option since rubellites are listed at 7.5 on the Mohs scale for hardness.

If you have questions or if you are interested in purchasing a rubellite as an addition or a beginning for your tangible asset portfolio, please contact me at (800) 247-2812 or send me an e-mail by contacting tgcloud@bellsouth.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

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