mineral
Black Tourmaline (Tumbled)
Schorl (NaFe2+3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)4)
Hardness: 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Pitch black, Luster: Vitreous to submetallic, Crystal system: Trigonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 3.0 to 3.2
- Hardness
- 7 to 7
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Pitch black, Luster: Vitreous to submetallic, Crystal system: Trigonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 3.0 to 3.2
Formation & geological history
Formed in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks through the crystallization of boron-rich fluids interacting with surrounding rock formations.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, as a decorative tumbled stone, in metaphysical practices for protection and grounding, and in industrial applications for its piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties.
Geological facts
Black tourmaline is known scientifically as schorl, which accounts for about 95% of all tourmaline found in nature. It was historically referred to as schorl by miners as early as the 15th century.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its deep black color, lack of cleavage, and high hardness. Commonly found worldwide, with notable deposits in Brazil, Africa, the USA, and Pakistan.
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