mineral
Black Tourmaline
Schorl (NaFe2+3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH,F)4)
Hardness: 7-7.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep black, opaque. Luster: Vitreous to submetallic. Crystal structure: Trigonal, typically forming long, striated prismatic crystals. Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific gravity: 3.2-3.8.
- Hardness
- 7-7
- Color
- Deep black, opaque
- Luster
- Vitreous to submetallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7-7.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep black, opaque. Luster: Vitreous to submetallic. Crystal structure: Trigonal, typically forming long, striated prismatic crystals. Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific gravity: 3.2-3.8.
Formation & geological history
Forms in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks such as schists and gneisses through high-temperature interactions of boron-rich fluids with crustal rocks.
Uses & applications
Widely used in holistic and metaphysical crystal healing for protection and grounding, as well as in jewelry and as mineral specimens for collectors.
Geological facts
Black tourmaline is known scientifically as schorl, which historically referred to a village in Germany where the mineral was mined as early as 1400.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic deep black color, striated columnar crystal faces, and lack of good cleavage. Found worldwide, notably in Brazil, Pakistan, and the United States.
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