Which gemstone is known to occur in almost every color?

Study for the GIA Colored Stones Test. Enhance your knowledge with flashcards, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations for every answer. Prepare to excel in your exam!

Tourmaline is known for its remarkable ability to occur in nearly every color of the spectrum, making it one of the most diverse gemstones in terms of coloration. This variety is due to its complex mineral structure, which can incorporate various trace elements. As a result, tourmaline can be found in shades ranging from pinks and reds to greens, blues, yellows, and even colorless forms. Additionally, some tourmaline varieties exhibit unique color zoning or bi-coloration, further enhancing their visual appeal and color spectrum.

In contrast, while quartz is available in several colors and varieties (like rose quartz or amethyst), it does not cover the same extensive range as tourmaline. Sapphires, primarily recognized for their blue color, can occur in other hues, but they are traditionally categorized based on specific colors, reducing their overall range compared to tourmaline. Emeralds are predominantly green and do not offer the same diversity in color as tourmaline. Thus, tourmaline stands out clearly as the gemstone known for its extensive color range.

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