In Conversation: Discussing Paraiba — The Legacy of a Color with Vogue Singapore

If there’s one gemstone I could talk about for hours, it’s Paraiba tourmaline — its electrifying colour, remarkable rarity and almost otherworldly glow make it truly one of a kind. Despite its growing popularity, I still feel it doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, and I love every opportunity to share its story. So, when Gordon Ng, Watches & Jewellery Editor at Vogue Singapore, reached out to discuss Paraiba, I was absolutely thrilled! The conversation encouraged both myself and Kevin Ferreira, my co-author, to recall exactly why we wrote Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color, and I am pleased to share more with you below. 

The Rising Demand for Paraiba Tourmaline

Paraiba remains one of the most desirable gemstones for collectors, yet it is not widely available or fully understood by the mainstream market. Since its discovery in the 1980s, its price has increased nearly tenfold, with demand continuing to grow. Brazilian Paraibas, in particular, are highly sought after due to their scarcity. Today, they can only be found through collectors who acquired them early or in vintage jewellery. This rarity has only amplified their value and desirability.

A Personal Connection to Paraíba

Long before I co-wrote this book, Paraiba held a special place in my heart. In fact, my old website featured Paraiba blue as one of its key colours because I adore it so much. Its striking swimming pool blue is simply incomparable, and that intensity is what first captured my attention. I have always been drawn to bold, statement jewellery, and Paraíba is the ultimate conversation piece. It’s impossible to wear one without attracting admiration—it’s a gemstone that refuses to go unnoticed, and that’s what I love most about it.

Jewellers Working with Paraiba

Given its rarity, only a handful of jewellers work extensively with Paraiba tourmaline, as sourcing high-quality specimens is a challenge in itself. However, a few connoisseurs have truly mastered the art of selecting and incorporating these electric-blue gems into their creations. Doris Hangartner, renowned for her expertise in rare and exceptional gemstones, and Jochen Leën, known for his discerning eye, have both perfected the craft of sourcing and working with the finest specimens. Even Bvlgari, the legendary Italian jeweller, once dedicated an entire collection to Paraiba tourmalines. However, due to the stone’s increasing scarcity and soaring demand, the brand no longer features it prominently in its designs.

Investment Potential of Paraiba 

When it comes to buying Paraiba as a long-term investment, Kevin has some important advice. He explains: “During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw a surge in alternative investments, and Paraiba was no exception. Those who purchased stones during that period have already seen returns of at least 30–50%. Unlike diamonds, which have standardised pricing, Paraiba’s value is determined by its colour—a highly subjective factor. What you may find beautiful in one shade, I may appreciate differently. This leaves a lot of room for growth in value. Unlike diamonds, which can be traded off a price list, Paraiba is an item someone falls in love with based on its appearance and the fact that it cannot simply be replaced. If you can acquire a stone and hold onto it for a time when someone else will fall in love with it, therein lies the opportunity for profit.” As scarcity continues to drive demand, the investment potential of Paraiba tourmaline only grows stronger, cementing its status as one of the most extraordinary and desirable gemstones in the world.

Writing Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color was a journey of discovery, and I hope it inspires more people to appreciate this mesmerising gemstone. With the support of distinguished publications like Vogue Singapore, we can begin to tell the Paraiba story to an even wider audience, helping more women (and men) to fall in love with this special tourmaline.