What is rubellite?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Rubellite is the trade name for the richest, most intensely coloured red and pink varieties of tourmaline. To earn the name rubellite, a stone is expected to hold its vivid red or deep raspberry colour in both daylight and artificial light, rather than shifting to a cooler or more washed-out pink when the light changes. Fine rubellite is prized for its depth of colour and relative rarity, and it comes primarily from Brazil, Nigeria and Mozambique. It is often set in fine jewellery as a bold alternative to ruby.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between rubellite and pink tourmaline?
- Pink tourmaline covers the full range of pinks in the tourmaline family, from pale pastel to hot pink. Rubellite specifically refers to tourmaline with a saturated red, deep pink or raspberry colour that stays strong across different lighting conditions. All rubellites are tourmaline, but not all pink tourmalines qualify as rubellite.
- Is rubellite a good alternative to ruby?
- Yes, for many buyers rubellite offers a vivid red to deep pink colour at a significantly lower price than fine ruby. The two stones look different in character and the tourmaline family has its own charm, but rubellite is a genuine fine gem with strong colour and good durability.
- How hard is rubellite?
- Tourmaline, including rubellite, sits at 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is suitable for most jewellery including rings, though it is softer than sapphire and ruby. Keeping it away from harder gems in storage prevents scratching.
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