The discovery of Paraiba Tourmaline occurred in the mid-1980s in Brazil and revolutionized the jewelry industry. After all, such an intense and magnificent colored mineral had never been seen before.

Over the years, deposits of Paraiba Tourmaline have been discovered in African countries such as Mozambique and Nigeria, but never with the same quality as Brazilian gems.

Paraiba is a type of elbaite characterized by a high copper content, ranging from 0.37% to 2.47% CuO by weight (Fritsch et al., 1990; Bank and Henn, 1990). Its mineral composition, rich in copper and manganese, imparts a distinctive coloration that can range from blue to green to purple, making it a captivating and valuable gemstone with various color variations.

The physical and optical properties of Paraiba, stemming from its unique gemological composition, make it both rare and easily recognizable. At the Brazilian Paraiba, discover exceptional specimens that highlight the natural beauty, treasured by enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The name Heitorita for the Paraiba tourmaline is derived in honor of Heitor Dimas Barbosa, the Brazilian miner and discoverer of this unique gemstone. In recognition of his contribution and discovery of this special shade of tourmaline in the state of Paraíba, the color variation was named Heitorita.

Heitorita is celebrated for its vibrant, intense blue to bluish-green hues, which are caused by the high copper content within the crystal structure. This striking coloration is what makes Heitorita particularly sought after and distinctive among Paraiba tourmalines.

The vivid glow and mesmerizing tone of Heitorita gemstones captivate collectors and jewelry enthusiasts worldwide, symbolizing both natural beauty and the groundbreaking discovery.made by Heitor Barbosa.