mineral

Green Tourmaline

Elbaite (Na(Li1.5Al1.5)Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)4)

Hardness: 7-7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Bottle green to olive green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often found as prismatic crystals with vertical striations); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.0-3.3

Hardness: 7-7
Color: Bottle green to olive green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks through hydrothermal processes where boron-rich fluids are present. Generally formed during the late stages of magma crystallization.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry, as mineral specimens for collectors, and historically in some pressure-sensitive gauges due to its piezoelectric properties.

Geological facts

Tourmaline is unique because it is pyroelectric, meaning it can generate an electrical charge when heated. Large, gem-quality green tourmaline is often called 'Verdelite' in the jewelry trade.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for triangular cross-sections and distinct vertical striations on crystal faces. Commonly found in Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of Africa.

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sedimentary

Schist

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Nephrite Jade

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Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral