mineral
Black Tourmaline
Schorl (NaFe3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, deep black color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture with no distinct cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, deep black color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture with no distinct cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, often crystallizing from cooling magma.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, metaphysical collections, and industrial applications due to its pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties.
Geological facts
Black tourmaline is known as schorl, which accounts for about 95 percent of all tourmaline found in nature.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its prismatic, striated columnar crystals and dark black opaque appearance; commonly sourced from Brazil, Pakistan, and the United States.
