
Onyx Band Rings -Brazilian Paraiba Ring, 1.01 carats
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In 1981, the gem miner Heitor Dimas Barbosa, commonly known among the local villagers as “Heitor the Fool,” began tunneling in the hill behind São José de Batalha, Paraíba, Brazil. Barbosa was determined that his hunch would lead to finding a new gemstone. Despite having no electricity or dependable water, Barbosa persevered with faith for over six years through the rugged and arid landscape on his quest. In 1987, his efforts were rewarded by the discovery of the first Brazilian Paraiba, a stunning gem that was unlike any stone ever found. Soon after their discovery, production began to dwindle; over 90% of the tourmaline production occurred between 1989 and 1992. It is thanks to their rare chemical composition that these gems owe their spectacular coloring and neon-bright glow that appears to light the stone from within.