mineral
Black Tourmaline
Schorl (NaFe2+3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7-7.5. Opaque black color with a vitreous to resinous luster. Forms long prismatic crystals with triangular cross-sections and vertical striations.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7-7.5. Opaque black color with a vitreous to resinous luster. Forms long prismatic crystals with triangular cross-sections and vertical striations.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, as well as metamorphic rocks like schist and marble, usually through hydrothermal activity.
Uses & applications
Used widely in metaphysical practices for protection and grounding. Minor uses in scientific instruments for its piezoelectric properties.
Geological facts
Schorl is the most common variety of tourmaline, accounting for 95% or more of all tourmaline in nature.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its deep black color, vertical striations, and rounded triangular cross-section. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the USA.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous