What term is used for the vibrant green to blue or violet elbaite tourmaline originally found in Brazil?

The term used for the vibrant green to blue or violet elbaite tourmaline originally found in Brazil is known as Paraiba tourmaline. This specific type of tourmaline is highly sought after due to its unique and striking color, which is attributed to the presence of copper and manganese in its crystalline structure. Paraiba tourmaline was first identified in the 1980s in the Paraiba state of Brazil, and its vivid hues set it apart from other varieties of tourmaline.

Elbaite tourmaline, while related, encompasses a broader spectrum of colors and does not exclusively refer to the specific vivid tones associated with Paraiba. Chrome tourmaline is another variety characterized primarily by its green color, which is different from the blue or violet shades of Paraiba. Watermelon tourmaline features a distinct multi-colored appearance with pink and green zones and does not reflect the specific color description mentioned in the question.

Understanding these distinctions is essential for recognizing the unique qualities and sourcing of various tourmaline types, particularly the coveted Paraiba variety, which represents a notable achievement in gemology for its color and rarity.