mineral

Green Tourmaline

Elbaite (part of Tourmaline group), Na(Li1.5Al1.5)Al6Si6O18(BO3)3(OH)4

Hardness: 7-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Green (various shades), Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific gravity: 2.82-3.32

Hardness: 7-7

Identified May 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Green (various shades), Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific gravity: 2.82-3.32

Formation & geological history

Forms in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks under high temperature and pressure conditions.

Uses & applications

Commonly faceted into gemstones for use in jewelry.

Geological facts

Green tourmaline, often referred to as verdelite, is highly pleochroic, meaning its color can appear different depending on the angle of view.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive green color, strong pleochroism, and trigonal crystal habit (often forming prismatic crystals with rounded triangular cross-sections). Found in Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of Africa.

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